Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'
IntermediateAgave applanata 'Cream Spike'
A small variegated agave whose blue leaves are each framed by a wide cream border. It stays about 25 cm tall and is also sold in Japan as 'Meriko Nishiki'.
About
'Cream Spike' is a small, cream-edged agave now placed under Agave applanata from Mexico. A US specialist nursery says it originally received the plant from another US grower under the invalid name Agave parryi 'Minima Variegata', and that it was later identified as a clone of A. applanata. It forms a compact clump about 25 cm tall and 30 cm wide, each blue leaf surrounded by a wide creamy border; the same nursery knows of no plants that have flowered. In Japan it has long been sold also as 'Meriko Nishiki', and some sellers list the two names together, but a Japanese succulent encyclopedia keeps them on separate pages, so whether they are always the same clone cannot be confirmed from published sources. When buying, check that the actual plant shows blue leaves with a broad cream edge. It is a small plant well suited to pots and turns up from time to time at specialist nurseries and online shops.
Size of the Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'
The Agave applanata 'Cream Spike' grows to Clump about 25 cm tall and 30 cm wide.
Basic Info
Origin
Cultivar (the species is native to Mexico)
Lifespan
Perennial; flowering has rarely if ever been reported
Size
Clump about 25 cm tall and 30 cm wide
Temperature
5〜40℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow in good light. The cream parts can scorch in harsh sun, so shade lightly in midsummer if needed.
Watering
Water after the mix dries out; keep drier in the cold season.
Temperature & Winter
Little is published on its cold tolerance; even in the US it is grown in containers where not hardy, so bring it indoors when frost is expected.
Soil & Repotting
Pot it in a free-draining mix. It clumps; divide when crowded.
Notes
Sellers sometimes split it between the names 'Meriko Nishiki' and 'Cream Spike'; judge by leaf colour and edge, not the label.
Agave applanata 'Cream Spike' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Agave applanata 'Cream Spike' get?
The mature size of Agave applanata 'Cream Spike' is Clump about 25 cm tall and 30 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'?
Agave applanata 'Cream Spike': watering & fertilizer — Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'?
The price of Agave applanata 'Cream Spike' varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Primary sources
- Species+ (CITES) query for Agave applanata: not listed
- Ministry of the Environment, list of Invasive Alien Species (no Agave listed)
- MAFF plant variety registration database (no registered Agave varieties)
- Plant Delights Nursery: Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'
- PUKUBOOK succulent encyclopedia: クリームスパイク
- PUKUBOOK succulent encyclopedia: メリコ錦
- GBIF
- POWO
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices, and not designated as an Invasive Alien Species or Uncategorized Alien Species under Japanese law. It is not a registered variety under Japan's Plant Variety Protection and Seed Act (no Agave varieties were registered as of September 2026).
Sources: Species+ (CITES) query for Agave applanata: not listed / Ministry of the Environment, list of Invasive Alien Species (no Agave listed) / MAFF plant variety registration database (no registered Agave varieties)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Agave applanata 'Cream Spike' Listings
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