Maguey de mezcal, a different agave

Agave potatorum var. verschaffelti

We are very used to seeing agaves with long leaves growing a bit messy on the shores or even in the gardens. However, there is one species that is actually very pretty and can be grown in all kinds of places, even in tires turned into containers for plants.

Its common name is Mezcal maguey, also known as Maguey mezcalero. Botanists know it as Agave potatorum, and it is one of the most beautiful species of the genus 😉.

What is El Maguey de mezcal like?

Young agave potatorum

Originally from Mexico, our protagonist forms rosettes composed of up to 80 leaves which are about 35cm long by 15cm wide, with wavy edges and protected by reddish-brown spines. The flowers are grouped in inflorescences which measure up to 3,5m in length.

Its growth rate is medium-fast, but as its roots are not invasive, it can be had without problems in any corner. In fact, in pots it does not exceed 50cm in diameter, making it ideal for decorating the terrace or patio.

As a curiosity, to say that from this plant an alcoholic drink known as mezcal is obtained.

How do you take care of yourself?

Agave potatorum

If you dare to have a copy, take note of our advice:

  • Location: in order to grow and develop properly, it needs to be located in an area where it is directly exposed to sunlight.
  • Soil or substrate: it must have good drainage (you have more information on this subject in this article). It prefers the rocky clay type, poor in nutrients.
  • Subscriber: very important to fertilize -especially if it is in a pot- with mineral fertilizers such as Nitrofoska, adding a small spoonful every 15 days. It can also be paid with fertilizer for cacti and succulents following the instructions specified on the package.
  • Transplant: every two years.
  • Multiplication: by seeds or separation of suckers in spring-summer.
  • Rusticity: supports frosts down to -3ºC.

Enjoy your Agave 🙂.


2 comments, leave yours

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  1.   remich2002reypelayo said

    As long as you don't change color, this is impossible to read.

    1.    Gabriel said

      I think it is your interface because it can be read well.
      Greetings.