Agave salmiana aka Pulque Agave

Agave salmiana is a large evergreen succulent native to Mexico. It belongs to the asparagus family, Asparagaceae. Gardeners also call it pulque agave or giant agave. Wild and grown plants show a wide range of forms. Most garden sources give heights of 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres]. Plants can reach the same width at maturity. LLIFLE gives a lower height of 5–7 feet [1.5–2 metres]. Offsets grow around the base and can form broad clumps.

A short, thick stem holds a rosette of fleshy leaves. The broad leaves range from grey-green to waxy blue-grey. They curve inward, with tips that may bend down. Leaves reach about 5–7 feet [1.5–2 metres] in length. Dark brown teeth line their edges. Each leaf ends in a long, sharp spine. These spines can reach 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] long. The bold leaf shape suits large yards, parks, and rock gardens.

Plants may take 10–25 years to reach their first bloom. A tall, branched flower stalk rises well above the leaves. NC State reports stalks reaching 15–40 feet [4.6–12.2 metres]. The flowers have a tube shape and yellow to green-yellow hues. They draw bees, birds, and hummingbirds. LLIFLE records flowering from late March to June in the wild. NC State lists summer bloom. Woody capsules hold dark seeds after the flowers fade. The main rosette dies after flowering and setting seed.

Grow this agave in full sun with soil that drains well. Sandy, rocky, or loamy soil can suit it. It withstands drought and poor soil once grown in suitable conditions. Water during active growth, but keep it near dry in winter. NC State lists USDA zones 8a–10b, with dry soil aiding cold tolerance. The RHS gives H2 and calls for frost-free winter shelter. Containers allow winter storage in a greenhouse or conservatory. The plant needs ample room but no routine pruning. Scale insects may occur, though sources report few disease problems.

People ferment the sweet sap to make pulque. The juice also supplies sugar and vinegar. People chew sections of the flower stem for their sweetness. Leaf fibres provide material for ropes, nets, clothes, and mats. Spines have served as needles, and roots as soap. These uses do not make the whole plant safe. The RHS warns that contact can irritate human skin. It also warns that eating the plant can harm cats and dogs. Wear gloves and other protection when handling its sharp leaves.