Skip to main content
Spider Agave (Agave bracteosa)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Spider Agave

Beginner

Agave bracteosa

A unique agave with soft spineless leaves spreading downward. Distinctive spider-like appearance.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
5〜40℃
Lifespan
Perennial (20-30 years)
Size
30-60cm
Watering
Minimal

About

Agave bracteosa, sometimes called the spider agave or candelabrum agave, is native to limestone cliffs and rocky slopes in Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas, Mexico. Unusually for the genus, it lacks marginal teeth and has only a soft terminal point—making it one of the safest agaves to handle. Its long, pale green leaves arch gracefully outward and downward in a spider-like pattern. Mature rosettes reach 30–60 cm tall, and the plant offsets prolifically. Growth is slow but steady. It is more shade-tolerant than most agaves, adapting well to bright indirect light, though full sun is also acceptable. Watering can be slightly more generous than for spine-bearing species; water when the soil dries. Cold hardiness is notable—reportedly surviving down to around -10°C—making outdoor year-round cultivation possible across much of Japan. Its thornless character, cold tolerance, and distinctive draping form make it an excellent recommendation for beginners and a charming addition to any collection.

Basic Info

Origin

Coahuila, Nuevo León, and Tamaulipas, Mexico

Lifespan

Perennial (20-30 years)

Size

30-60cm

Temperature

5〜40℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Minimal

Growing Tips

Notes

棘がないため安全に扱える

Notes

柔らかい葉が特徴的

Temperature

耐寒性がある(-10℃程度)

Notes

半日陰でも育つ

Breeding

子株で増える

BracteosaSpinelessSoft leavesSpider-like

Spider Agave FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Spider Agave?
A

Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Spider Agave?
A

The ideal temperature for Spider Agave is 5〜40℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Spider Agave?
A

The average lifespan of Spider Agave is Perennial (20-30 years). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Spider Agave get?
A

The mature size of Spider Agave is 30-60cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Spider Agave?
A

Spider Agave: watering & fertilizer — Minimal. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Spider Agave?
A

The price of Spider Agave varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Growing Specifications

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Agave bracteosa (S.Watson ex Engelm.) A.Vázquez, Rosales & García-Mor.

Synonyms: Agave bracteosa

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Appendices (List of species protected by CITES Appendix II) / 環境省 特定外来生物一覧 (Agave 非該当を確認)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

Find listings for this species

Related Articles

Agave Propagation Methods | Practical Guide to Offsets, Pup Division, and Seed Sowing

A comprehensive guide to three primary methods for agave propagation. This article explains the procedures for offset propagation, pup division, and seed sowing, covering success factors and variety-specific selection criteria from a professional perspective.

Growth Acceleration Strategy for Large Agave Plants | Fertilization, Light, Temperature, and Repotting Timing

Maximizing the growth of large agave plants requires strategically optimizing four key elements: fertilization, light, temperature, and repotting. A growth rate 3 to 5 times faster than normal is achievable within one year.

Outdoor Environment Setup for Large Agave Species and In-Ground Installation Strategies for Oversized Varieties

Challenges in Large Agave Cultivation and the Importance of Outdoor Environments Among Agave species, large varieties that exceed one meter at maturity (such as Agave titanota and Agave parry) captivate many plant enthusiasts with their imposing presence and visual impact. However, as size increases, indoor management becomes increasingly difficult, making the transition to outdoor cultivation essential. Outdoor environments require more than simply "securing land"—they demand a complex system encompassing wind-resistant anchoring methods, efficient drainage, and seasonal adaptation strategies. This article explains practical, concrete methods for setting up outdoor environments to safely and healthily cultivate large Agaves.

View More Articles →

🩺 Common diseases