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Agave Lechuguilla (Agave lechuguilla)

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Agave Lechuguilla

Beginner

Agave lechuguilla

A small agave widely native to the Chihuahuan Desert. Called the 'indicator plant of the Chihuahuan Desert'. Sharp leaf tips and clumping habit. Strong fibers traditionally used for rope and baskets.

Growing Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
-10〜40℃
Lifespan
15-25 years
Size
30-60cm (rosette diameter)
Humidity
5〜30%

About

Agave lechuguilla is a small to medium agave native to vast areas from Texas and New Mexico in the USA southward through the Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts of northern Mexico. It is one of the most emblematic plants of the Chihuahuan Desert. Stiff, narrow green to gray-green leaves grow semi-erect, lined with small upward-pointing marginal teeth. The extremely sharp terminal spine poses a genuine hazard to wildlife and humans alike. Mature rosettes are relatively small at 30–50 cm in diameter but produce offsets prolifically, forming extensive colonies. The fiber extracted from its leaves (ixtle) has been used by indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Cold-hardy to approximately -10°C and adapted to extreme aridity. Its small size and easy maintenance make it ideal for creating a desert atmosphere.

Basic Info

Origin

Texas and New Mexico (USA) to Chihuahuan and Sonoran deserts (Mexico)

Lifespan

15-25 years

Size

30-60cm (rosette diameter)

Temperature

-10〜40℃

Humidity

5〜30%

Growing Tips

Light

Requires strong direct sunlight

Watering

Tolerates extreme drought. Minimal watering needed

Cold Hardiness

Hardy to approximately -10°C

Notes

Extremely sharp leaf tips. Careful placement in gardens

LechuguillaChihuahuan DesertSmallIndicator plant

Agave Lechuguilla FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave Lechuguilla?
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 Agave Lechuguilla?
A

The ideal temperature for Agave Lechuguilla is -10〜40℃. Recommended humidity is 5〜30%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Agave Lechuguilla?
A

The average lifespan of Agave Lechuguilla is 15-25 years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Agave Lechuguilla get?
A

The mature size of Agave Lechuguilla is 30-60cm (rosette diameter). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Agave Lechuguilla?
A

The price of Agave Lechuguilla 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

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 lechuguilla Torr.

Synonyms: Agave heteracantha, Agave poselgeri, Agave univittata var. tamaulipasana, Agave lophantha var. tamaulipasana, Agave multilineata

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

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