Source: Wikimedia Commons
Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant)
IntermediateAgave gypsophila
A medium agave with soft, wavy grey leaves unlike most others, bearing small, soft marginal teeth. Most plants in cultivation are now considered to be A. pablocarrilloi, split off in 2013.
About
Agave gypsophila grows in south-western Mexico; the epithet means 'gypsum-loving', after the gypsum hills and calcareous soils where it grows. A US grower describes a mostly solitary, open rosette about 60-90 cm tall and wide, with wavy grey leaves bearing small, soft, closely spaced teeth. New pale grey-green leaves clasp together like a tube before spreading out, becoming wavier and greyer. With age it produces a few offsets at the base. The infrequent orange-yellow flowers are borne on a panicle about 1.8-2.4 m tall. A 2013 study split the broad A. gypsophila into five species; A. gypsophila in the strict sense is endemic to Guerrero and listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN. Most plants grown around the world are thought to be A. pablocarrilloi, one of the segregates. In Japan specialist nurseries sell plants, and a variegated form, 'Ivory Curls', is also available.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant)
The Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant) grows to About 60-90 cm tall and wide.
Basic Info
Origin
South-western Mexico (A. gypsophila in the strict sense is endemic to Guerrero; most cultivated plants are thought to be A. pablocarrilloi from Colima)
Lifespan
Perennial; the flowering rosette dies and offsets carry on
Size
About 60-90 cm tall and wide
Temperature
5〜40℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
A US grower recommends light shade or morning sun only; avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Watering
Water after the mix dries; sparingly in winter.
Temperature & Winter
Frost-tender; badly damaged below about -4°C. Winter it in a bright spot indoors.
Soil & Repotting
Free-draining mix; repot pot-bound plants at the start of the growing season.
Notes
Most cultivated plants are thought to be A. pablocarrilloi, so labels may not match the true species. The variegated 'Ivory Curls' is sold under its own name.
Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant)?
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 gypsophila (Gypsum century plant) get?
The mature size of Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant) is About 60-90 cm tall and wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant)?
Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant): 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 gypsophila (Gypsum century plant)?
The price of Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant) 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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Agave gypsophila Gentry
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF · GBIF（A. pablocarrilloi） · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices, and not designated as an Invasive Alien Species or Uncategorized Alien Species under Japanese law.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) query for Agave gypsophila: not listed / Ministry of the Environment, list of Invasive Alien Species (no Agave listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Agave gypsophila (Gypsum century plant) Listings
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