Agave Desmettiana ‘Variegata’

Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’

Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’ is a compact, architectural agave loved for its curved, glossy green leaves edged in bright golden-yellow. Compared to many agaves, it’s often considered “smoother” along the margins (typically lightly toothed), but it still features a sharp terminal spine—making it a clean, modern statement plant for xeriscape designs and containers.

Ideal for: full sun to partial sun landscapes, xeriscape and rock gardens, modern entryways (set back from walkways), patios, and container planting in warm climates.

🌵 Plant Features

Botanical Name: Agave desmetiana ‘Variegata’ (also sold as Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’)
Common Name: Variegated Smooth Agave, Dwarf Variegated Agave, Variegated Smooth Century Plant
Plant Type: Evergreen succulent (agave)
Foliage: Bright green leaves with golden-yellow margins; usually smooth to finely toothed edges; sharp reddish-brown terminal spine
Growth Habit: Upright, urn-shaped rosette; produces offsets (“pups”) over time
Mature Size:
• Height: ~2–3 ft
• Width/Spread: ~3–4 ft
Visual Style: Clean, sculptural, modern accent plant with high-contrast variegation
USDA Zones (general): 9–11

🪴 Care & Maintenance Guide

🌞 Light

Best: Full sun to partial sun
Tip: In very hot climates, partial sun/filtered light can reduce stress and keep the plant looking fresh.

💧 Watering

Water deeply, then allow soil to dry out completely
Once established: Low water needs (drought-tolerant)
Tip: Overwatering + poor drainage is the #1 cause of rot.

🪨 Soil

Fast-draining soil is essential
Use cactus/succulent mix or sandy/gritty soil
Containers must have drainage holes.

🌡️ Temperature & Cold

Prefers warm climates
Protect from frost/freezing temperatures, especially in wet soil. (Hardiness varies by microclimate.)

🌿 Fertilization

Minimal feeding needed
Optional: Light feeding 1–2x during spring/summer with a cactus/succulent fertilizer.

✂️ Pruning

Remove only fully brown/dry leaves
Use gloves—terminal spines can be sharp.

⚠️ Common Issues

Soft/mushy base: Overwatering or poor drainage
Leaf scorch: Sudden move into intense sun (acclimate gradually)
Wrinkling: Extended drought (water deeply, then let dry fully)

📦 What You’ll Receive

One healthy Agave desmettiana ‘Variegata’ in a nursery pot.
Natural variation in striping intensity, leaf curvature, and fullness is normal.

Acclimation Tip:
Allow 2–4 days after delivery before repotting. If moving into stronger sun, increase sun exposure gradually. Avoid heavy watering until the soil is fully dry.

⚠️ Safety Note

This agave has a sharp terminal spine and may have lightly toothed edges—place away from walkways, children, and pets. Wear gloves when handling; sap may irritate sensitive skin.