Agave utahensis discreta – Succulent plants

Agave utahensis discreta is a slow-growing, succulent form a toothy rosette 50-60cm and forming a small colony of clumping offsets in the process. The raceme inflorescence is very tall, reaching up to 4 m. It is generally yellow or yellow-green with bulbous yellow flowers. The fruits are capsules up to 3 cm long and containing black seed.

Scientific Classification:

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave

Scientific Name: Agave utahensis discreta
Common Names: Century Plant

How to grow and maintain Agave utahensis discreta:

Light:
It thrives best in full sun to light shade. A South or south-east facing window works great.

Soil:
It prefers to grow in well-drained soil. Use standard succulent or cacti potting mix.

Temperature:
It prefers warm spring and summer temperatures 70ºF/21ºC – 90ºF/32ºC and cooler fall and winter temperatures 50ºF/10ºC – 60ºF/15ºC.

Water:
In spring, water this plant when the top inch of soil is totally dry. Don’t let the soil become completely dry. In the winter and fall, when growth is suspended, water very lightly. Too much water can cause root rot or cause the leaves to become pale and flop.

Fertilizer:
Fertilize with a standard liquid fertilizer every two weeks during spring and summer. Do not feed during fall and winter.

Propagation:
It can be easily propagated from Suckers or seeds. Remove the basal suckers (if available) in spring or summer and let the cuttings dry for a few days before inserting them in compost. Growing agave from seed produces a large number of plants quickly. A moist, sterile soil mix containing equal parts perlite and sphagnum peat is ideal for germinating seeds in a warm location with indirect light. The soil must stay lightly moist until the plants are established. A clear plastic covering helps keep the soil moist during the two to three weeks until the seeds sprout, then a daily misting keeps the seedlings moist until ready to transplant.

Pests and Diseases:
It has no serious pest or disease problems. Watch for mealybugs and scale.