Species
Agave americanaAgave3 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
A striking succulent forming a rosette of gracefully arching, gray-green leaves, each with a broad, creamy-white central stripe. The leaves are tipped with a sharp terminal spine.
This cultivar is distinguished by its variegated foliage, which provides a dramatic contrast and enhances its ornamental appeal in xeriscapes and container gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
36 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Infrequent
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Many decades
Native To
Mexico and the southwestern US
Toxicity
Sap can cause skin irritation; toxic if ingested.
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or offsets into well-draining soil in full sun.
- Water sparingly until established, about 2 weeks.
- Mist cuttings lightly to encourage root growth.
- Ensure soil remains dry between waterings to prevent rot.
- Place in a warm, bright location for best growth.
- Transplant when plants are mature, typically after 2-3 years.
Pro Tip
Use cactus or succulent mix for optimal drainage and root health.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
- Provide full sun for vibrant variegation
- Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
- Apply cactus fertilizer during growing season
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Expose to excessive shade
- Use heavy, clay soils without amendments
- Neglect winter protection in colder zones
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mediopicta Alba Agave questions
What zones can Mediopicta Alba Agave grow in?
Mediopicta Alba Agave is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mediopicta Alba Agave deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Mediopicta Alba Agave, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Mediopicta Alba Agave bloom?
Mediopicta Alba Agave typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mediopicta Alba Agave need full sun?
Mediopicta Alba Agave does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Mediopicta Alba Agave drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mediopicta Alba Agave handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Agave to compare
Utah Agave Kaibabensis
Agave utahensis 'kaibabensis'
Toumey's Agave
Agave toumeyana
Slimfoot Century Plant
Agave gracilipes
McKelvey's Agave
Agave mckelveyana
Frosty Blue Whale's Tongue Agave
Agave ovatifolia 'Frosty Blue'
Vanzie Whale's Tongue Agave
Agave ovatifolia 'Vanzie'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Mediopicta Alba Agave with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.