Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'
IntermediateAgave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'
A selection of Agave isthmensis with broad, thick leaves like a horseshoe crab's shell and adjacent teeth fused into continuous bands. Unvariegated silver-green leaves give a small but weighty look.
About
Kabutogani ('horseshoe crab') is a selection of Agave isthmensis, a small species from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in Oaxaca, southern Mexico; it is also written 兜蟹. A. isthmensis was described in 1993, having earlier been treated as a form of A. potatorum. According to a Japanese plant guide, Kabutogani packs broad, thick leaves reminiscent of the crab's shell, silver-green to bright green, with red to reddish-brown or black teeth; its hallmark is 'renkyoku', where neighbouring teeth fuse into plate-like bands. Even plants without fused teeth show large, wavy teeth. Within isthmensis, 'Ohi Raijin' has shorter leaves and modest teeth, and the variegated 'Yookihi' has thinner, slimmer leaves, so fused teeth make Kabutogani easy to pick out. Variegated plants are sold separately as Kabutogani Nishiki or Ohi Kabutogani Nishiki. It is tender and should be wintered indoors. In Japan it is fairly common at garden centres and online.
Lifespan of the Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'
The Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' lives Perennial; flowering is said to come only after decades, with offsets carrying on.
Size of the Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'
The Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' grows to A. isthmensis stays about 20 cm tall even when mature.
Temperature & humidity for the Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'
The ideal temperature for the Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' is 15〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Cultivar (the species is from the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico)
Lifespan
Perennial; flowering is said to come only after decades, with offsets carrying on
Size
A. isthmensis stays about 20 cm tall even when mature
Temperature
15〜30℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Sun and airflow all year; watch for scorch in midsummer. Indoors, an LED grow light helps.
Watering
Spring to autumn, water thoroughly once the mix dries; very sparingly in winter dormancy.
Temperature & Winter
Tender: it may be damaged or killed below 0°C. Keep it indoors in a bright spot over winter.
Soil & Repotting
Free-draining mix, e.g. hyuga pumice, akadama and pumice at about 4:4:2. Propagate from offsets.
Notes
Fused teeth vary by plant and growing conditions; check the teeth on the actual plant, not just the label.
Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'?
The ideal temperature for Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' is 15〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'?
The average lifespan of Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' is Perennial; flowering is said to come only after decades, with offsets carrying on. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' get?
The mature size of Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' is A. isthmensis stays about 20 cm tall even when mature. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani'?
Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani': 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 isthmensis 'Kabutogani'?
The price of Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' 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 isthmensis: not listed
- Ministry of the Environment, list of Invasive Alien Species (no Agave listed)
- MAFF plant variety registration database (no registered Agave varieties)
- HanaPrime plant guide: Agave isthmensis (cultivar comparison)
- San Marcos Growers: Agave isthmensis
- PUKUBOOK succulent encyclopedia: 甲蟹
- 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 isthmensis: 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.
Agave isthmensis 'Kabutogani' Listings
![Kodama-hime Sasanoyuki [Small] Rare High-Quality Specimen - Direct from Agave Grower | 五本幸二 Nursery](https://img.botachoku.com/listings/bd75d031-53ca-4369-b7e2-884bdb80f54f/c9a39afe-50e5-4e00-89d6-03b4060e4699_thumb.webp)
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Preventing Leaf Burn in Agave and Light Management | Transition Strategy from Indoor to Outdoor Cultivation
Light management strategy to prevent agave leaf burn completely while successfully transitioning from indoor to outdoor environments. This article explains practical methods including gradual light intensity adjustment, seasonal placement changes, and UV protection measures.
Tips for Cultivating White Variegated Agave Varieties
Tips for Cultivating White Variegated Agave Varieties
Complete Care Guide for Agave oteroi | Tips for Training Beautiful Large Rosettes
We explain the characteristics and cultivation of Agave oteroi, a large agave native to Oaxaca, Mexico. From placement location and soil to watering and overwintering—a practical guide for those beginning to cultivate this species.
The Deep Connection Between Agave and Tequila | The Secret of a Distilled Spirit Born from Century Plant
Tequila is made from only Agave tequilana among the Agave genus. This essay explains the ecology of century plants, the Jalisco region as a production area, and the differences from ornamental agaves.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.