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Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'
BeginnerAgave pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'
A cultivar of the small Cuban agave. Wavy margins and distinctive blue-green leaves resembling 'dragon toes' give it its name. Very compact and suitable for indoor cultivation. A popular garden cultivar.
About
Agave pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' is a cultivar of A. pygmaea, native to the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico. Despite its small size, it makes a strong visual impact. The thick green to dark green leaves are relatively short, lined with large, conspicuous cream to white ornamental marginal teeth that resemble dragon claws—hence the cultivar name. Mature rosettes reach just 20–40 cm in diameter, making it perfectly suited for small-pot cultivation. The parent species inhabits limestone forests of the Yucatán, so it tolerates slightly more shade than most agaves. An essential variety for small agave collections, it is ideal for windowsill and balcony container growing.
Lifespan of the Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'
The Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' lives 20-30 years.
Size of the Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'
The Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' grows to 20-40cm (rosette diameter).
Temperature & humidity for the Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'
The ideal temperature for the Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' is 5〜35℃. Ideal humidity is 30〜60%.
However, cold tolerance is relatively low, requiring caution below 5°C.
Basic Info
Origin
Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico (cultivar)
Lifespan
20-30 years
Size
20-40cm (rosette diameter)
Temperature
5〜35℃
Humidity
30〜60%
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It grows in anything from direct sun to bright partial shade. Inheriting the species' forest-floor origins, it tolerates shade a little better than other agaves.
Watering
Keep it on the dry side and water once the soil has dried. Avoid excess moisture and never leave the pot waterlogged.
Temperature & Overwintering
Cold tolerance is low, with a working range of 5-35°C. Watch out below 5°C and bring it to a bright indoor window for winter.
Soil & Repotting
Use a fast-draining mix. With a rosette of only 20-40 cm, this compact cultivar does fine in a small pot.
Size
Very small size, ideal for balconies and indoor pots
Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'?
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 Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'?
The ideal temperature for Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' is 5〜35℃. Recommended humidity is 30〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'?
The average lifespan of Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' is 20-30 years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' get?
The mature size of Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' is 20-40cm (rosette diameter). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes'?
The price of Agave Pygmaea 'Dragon Toes' varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 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 pygmaea Jacobi 'Dragon Toes'
Synonyms: Agave pygmaea, Agave seemanniana var. pygmaea, Agave seemanniana var. perscabra, Agave guatemalensis, Agave scolymus var. seemanniana, Agave tortispina
Authority databases: GBIF · POWO
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
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 Species
Find listings for this species
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