Agave vilmoriniana A. Berger

Octopus agave

Octopus agave originated in Mexico. Plants may bloom in as few as 7-10 years, much sooner than most agaves.

Plants: Like most agaves, this is an evergreen that dies after blooming. It reaches 3–4′ (91–121 cm) in height, and a width of up to 6′ (1.8 m).

Leaves: Long blue-green leaves curve outward and downward, forming a basal rosette. The leaves have a velvety texture. The plant resembles an octopus waving its leafy tentacles, hence the common name. The rosette of leaves is up to 3′ (91 cm) high and 5′ (1.5 m) around. Each leaf is crescent-shaped in cross section.

Flowers: The flowers form from a large central panicle 10–16′ (3–4.9 m) in height. Flowers are yellow-white to yellow, appearing from spring to summer.

Fruits: Small bulbils propagate this species.

Habitats: Desert cliffs, typically at elevations of 1969–5577′ (600–1700 m).

Online References:

References:

Agave vilmoriniana description by Thomas H. Kent, not updated.

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