Skip to main content
Agave Kissho Kan (Agave potatorum)

AI-generated image

Agave Kissho Kan

Beginner

Agave potatorum

A popular agave long cultivated in Japan. Hardy, easy for beginners, and easily available.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
5〜40℃
Lifespan
10-20 years
Size
30-50cm

About

Agave 'Kisshoukan' (吉祥冠) is a cultivated form of Agave potatorum that has been grown in Japan since the Edo period, making it one of the oldest established agaves in Japanese horticultural tradition. It features short, broad, blue-gray leaves radiating symmetrically with reddish-brown to dark brown marginal teeth and a terminal spine. Mature rosettes reach 30–50 cm tall and 40–60 cm wide. Growth is slow but the plant is notably robust and adaptable, making it one of the most beginner-friendly agave cultivars available. Full sun produces the best leaf color. Water sparingly when the soil dries, reducing to monthly in winter. A well-draining soil mix is recommended; avoid overwatering. Widely available at garden centers and succulent specialty shops at reasonable prices, Kisshoukan is often the first agave a Japanese collector acquires, and it remains a reliable, rewarding staple of any collection.

Lifespan of the Agave Kissho Kan

The Agave Kissho Kan lives 10-20 years.

Size of the Agave Kissho Kan

The Agave Kissho Kan grows to 30-50cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Agave Kissho Kan

Cold hardiness is around 5°C—keep frost-free.

Basic Info

Origin

Cultivated selection (wild species from Oaxaca and Puebla, Mexico)

Lifespan

10-20 years

Size

30-50cm

Temperature

5〜40℃

Growing Tips

Light & Placement

It prefers direct sun, and the leaf color fades without enough light. Keep it in a sunny outdoor spot or balcony.

Watering

Drought-tolerant; water sparingly after the soil dries. In winter, cut back to about once a month.

Soil & Repotting

A drainage-focused mix is essential, and overwatering must be avoided. Growth is slow, so repot once it becomes root-bound.

Temperature & Overwintering

Cold tolerance is around 5°C, so overwintering in a frost-free spot is ideal. Move it to a bright indoor windowsill in winter.

Notes

Hardy, ideal agave for beginners

Kissho KanJapan-cultivatedHardyBeginner

Agave Kissho Kan FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave Kissho Kan?
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 lifespan of Agave Kissho Kan?
A

The average lifespan of Agave Kissho Kan is 10-20 years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Agave Kissho Kan get?
A

The mature size of Agave Kissho Kan is 30-50cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Agave Kissho Kan?
A

The price of Agave Kissho Kan varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: July 5, 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

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Agave potatorum Zucc.

Synonyms: Agave scolymus, Agave pulchra, Agave auricantha, Agave saundersii, Agave quadrata, Agave latifolia

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) / Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (confirmed Agave non-applicable)

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

Related Articles

View More Articles →

🩺 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.