Agave potatorum forma compatta ('compact form)
This is the more frequently seen form in cultivation, particularly priced for its small size. The leaves have distinct showy bud-imprints.
Origin and Habitat: Garden origin selected cultivar.
Synonyms:
See all synonyms of Agave potatorum
Description: Agave potatorumSN|540]]SN|540]] forma compatta is a dwarf cultivated form that grows eventually up 20(-30) cm cm tall and in diameter. It is a compact miniature rosette
Leaves: Wide, thick, striking dusty-blue with few short spines and terminate in a distinctive, slightly twisted, reddish spine. The leaf margins display pronounced swellings at the base of the teeth. Usually the leaves shows noticeable leaf imprinting.
Cultivation and Propagation: Agave potatorumSN|540]]SN|540]] forma compatta is a easy-to-grow species, but isn’t a super fast grower. It grows as a solitary symmetrical rosette, but may produces a few plantlets around its perimeter.
Soils: Grow it in porous soil with adequate drainage.
Light requirements: It does well in full sun or a lightly shaded area.
Waterings: Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch. In winter watering this plant can be done once every 1-2 months, there is no need to mist the leaves.
Hardiness: It is supposed to be hardy to -3° C, particularly when dry but it is best to avoid severe freezing temperatures.
Heat Tolerance: Good.
Propagation: Relatively easy to propagate by seeds or by suckers (if available) Remove the basal suckers in spring or summer and let the cuttings dry for a few days before inserting in compost. only problem is the logistics of getting to the suckers - very sharp spines and suckers usually right up against, or underneath the mother plant.
Uses: Often used in a pot as a patio plant, they make an eye-catching statement and along with other evergreen plants in pots, can be moved around to change the scenery or position to give more shelter.
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