Scientific name: Agave macroacantha
Common name: Black-spined Agave
The blue-gray Agave forms symmetrical rosettes. The leaves are long and tipped. There are dark brown teeth growing along the edges of the leaf. It can take 15 years or more to bloom.
Quick Look at Agave macroacantha
- Full sun to partial shade
- Typical water needs for a succulent
- Plant grows up to 24″ (61 cm) tall
Plant grows up to 48″ (122 cm) wide - Zone 10a (Minimum 30° F | -1.1° C)
- Not cold hardy
- Propagation by division and offsets
- Can be toxic to humans and animals
- Winter Dormant
General Care for Agave macroacantha “Black-spined Agave”
The black-spined Agave is a great addition to hanging baskets. As it grows, it becomes a small shrub.
Watering
A black-spined Agave has typical watering needs. The “soak and dry” method will allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Where to Plant
If you live in a zone that gets colder than 30 F, it’s best to plant the black-spined Agave in a container that can be brought indoors. It does well in both full and partial sun.
You can plant in an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day. If you’re in the Northern Hemisphere, place a room that gets a lot of sunlight near a southern-facing window.
How to Propagate Agave macroacantha “Black-spined Agave”
The black-spined Agave can be spread from division or offsets.
Division
To grow black-spined Agave from division, split the rhizome with a sharp knife. Be certain that there are lots of roots. Allow the plant to be calloused for a day or two before planting.
The stem of the black-spined Agave has a toxic substance on it. Use care when handling or propagating this plant.
Offsets
To grow black-spined Agave from offsets, use a sterile knife or pair of scissors. Remove one of the offsets from the main plant and allow it to grow for a few days before planting well-draining soil.
