Synonyms:

Agave nevadensis

Habitat:

This variety of Agave utahensis thrives in arid, desert regions, predominantly found in the higher elevation areas of Nevada. It is well-adapted to survive in environments with extreme temperature fluctuations, from scorching hot days to freezing nights. The plant is commonly found in rocky, well-drained soils, often on slopes or in the crevices of rocks, which help provide the drainage it requires.

Description:

Agave utahensis var. nevadensis is recognized for its compact rosette of thick, spiny leaves. The leaves are generally gray-green to blue-green in color and are tipped with a sharp spine, which is a characteristic feature of many agave species. This plant typically grows up to 60 cm in height and width, although size can vary depending on growing conditions. One of the most striking aspects of this agave is its flowering process. Like other agaves, it is monocarpic, meaning it flowers once in its lifetime, usually after many years, and then dies. The flower stalk is impressive, shooting up to several feet in height, bearing yellow to greenish-yellow flowers that are attractive to various pollinators.

Cultivation:

This is a slow growing plant, easy to cultivate. The best sun-exposure is in bright place but is recommended to avoid direct sun-light in the hottest periods. The plant does not like temperatures below 6°C so it needs to be placed indoors in the coldest periods. The perfect soil is a well-drained soil that let the water to drain away and avoid root rot. To achieve this feature, you can mix the pumice soil, clay and soil. Remember to use a perforating pot to drain excess water. Watering is very important for this species and should be done well: during the vegetative period you can water the plant (every 7 days), checking that the soil is completely dry before watering again; in winter you should stop the watering to allow the plant to enter dormancy. If you want a faster and lush growth you can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with the specific fertilizers for succulents; stop fertilizing throughout the winter. You should repot the plant every 2 years in a pot 2 cm wider. Repotting should be done early in the growing season with fresh new potting soil. Be careful to red spiders and mealy bugs.

Propagation:

Propagation can be done by seed or by separating offsets (pups) that form around the base of the parent plant. By seed it is very simple to propagate the plant, it is enough to sow the seed in a sandy loam soil and keep it with a high level of humidity and at temperature of 14 C°. Offsets can be carefully removed and replanted, although they may take some time to establish and grow. To increase the success of propagation you can make two or more cuttings at the same time. For cuttings it is recommended temperatures around 20 °C.

Curiosity:

The Mesoamerican civilizations have long exploited the agave properties: it was used to get drinks, syrups, animal feed, textile fibers, medicinal packs. Some of these uses are still standing: the tequila, for example, is made by Agave Blue.

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