Agave isthmensis
Dwarf Butterfly Agave

Description: Dwarf Butterfly Agave is a small, offsetting species with individual rosettes growing to about 1 foot tall and 1 foot across. The powder blue, succulent leaves are ovate, narrow at the base and widest toward the tip. They measure 4-5 inches long and 2-3 inches wide at the widest point. Leaf margins are prominently crenate, and clothed with reddish brown or black teeth. The dark brown to black terminal spine contrasts beautifully with the powder blue leaves. The 6-7 foot tall flower stalks have about 20 short side branches, each adorned with yellow flowers that measure nearly 2 inches long.

Habitat and Distribution: Agave isthmensis is native to the Isthmus of Tehuantepec along the southern coast of Oaxaca.

Culture: Agave isthmensis should be used as a container plant and placed in filtered sun or morning sun and afternoon shade. Plants are half-hardy, sustaining damage at temperatures in the upper 20º’s F. If frost is expected, cover plants with a towel or blanket. As a potted plant, Dwarf Butterfly Agave can get by with once a week watering in the summer and every other week in the winter. This Agave grows best in a soil with good drainage.

To print Hit the Blue Agave