Agave horrida

Agave horrida is an evergreen succulent from Morelos in Mexico. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Its native climate has a dry season within the tropics. This perennial grows as a clump of leaf rosettes. Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall and wide. They can take 10–20 years to reach their full size. The Ferns lists its conservation status as Least Concern.

The stiff leaves have a deep green colour. Their edges and tips bear dark brown teeth and spines. These hard parts turn pale grey-white as they age. The plant keeps its leaves through the year. A mature rosette may send up a tall, slim flower spike. Its flowers are yellow, though some plants have purple blooms. The rosette dies once it has finished flowering. The Ferns names bats and hummingbirds as pollinators. It also reports that the species is self-fertile.

Give this agave full sun and soil that drains well. The RHS lists both sand and loam as suitable soils. It accepts acid or neutral soil and can withstand drought. For growing under glass, the RHS recommends cactus compost. Water well while the plant grows, then reduce winter watering. Keep it nearly dry during the cold months. Feed with weak liquid fertiliser three or four times during growth. The RHS gives it the UK hardiness rating H2. It tolerates cool conditions but does not survive freezing. In Britain, it needs a greenhouse or conservatory for winter. It can spend summer outdoors in a sunny spot.

The RHS suggests pots, patios, courtyards and gravel gardens. It also lists coastal, informal and subtropical garden settings. Its evergreen rosettes provide foliage through all seasons. Winter shelter remains needed where frost occurs. This plant needs no pruning, according to the RHS. Sow seed in early spring at 21°C for propagation. Scale insects may attack it, though diseases rarely cause problems.

People use this species to make mezcal. They bake the harvested hearts, then mash them for fermentation. Distillation turns the fermented liquid into the finished drink. Fibres from the plant also serve for cord and rope. The Ferns reports no known medicinal use. Food use does not mean the raw plant is safe. The RHS warns that contact can irritate human skin. It also warns that eating it can harm cats and dogs. Wear gloves and protective clothing when handling the plant.