Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave)
IntermediateAgave nickelsiae × scabra 'Sharkskin'
A large hybrid with thick, triangular, dark grey-green leaves of a rough, shark-skin texture, neatly arranged. The margins are smooth and toothless, leaving only a stout tip spine. Thought to be a natural hybrid found in Mexico.
About
Sharkskin is a large agave named for the texture and colour of its leaves. According to a US grower, it is a natural hybrid between the ferdinandi-regis form of the Queen Victoria agave (now described as A. nickelsiae) and A. scabra, now treated as a subspecies of A. asperrima. A Japanese succulent encyclopedia says it was found in Mexico in the early 1970s. It reaches about 90 cm tall and 90-120 cm wide, with evenly spaced, thick, triangular, dark grey-green leaves whose smooth margins lack teeth, ending in a prominent, sturdy tip spine. It offsets to form colonies. Growth is slow, with one record of about 45 cm across after six years. It is sometimes sold as 'Ruth Bancroft', a confusing name; plants traced to that US garden are distinguished as 'Sharkskin Shoes', which are more upright and seem less affected by mealybugs. It is scarce in Japan and sold mainly by specialist nurseries.
Size of the Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave)
The Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave) grows to About 90 cm tall and 90-120 cm wide.
Basic Info
Origin
Considered a natural hybrid found in Mexico
Lifespan
Perennial; the flowering rosette dies and offsets carry on
Size
About 90 cm tall and 90-120 cm wide
Temperature
5〜40℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Full sun; it grows large, so allow room even in a pot.
Watering
Drought tolerant; needs little water. Water after a moderately free-draining mix dries.
Temperature & Winter
A US grower reports hardiness to about -6°C; winter potted plants away from hard frost.
Soil & Repotting
Free-draining mix; offsets can be divided.
Pests & Notes
Reportedly prone to mealybugs, so check the leaf bases regularly. The tip spine is stout and sharp.
Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave)?
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 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave) get?
The mature size of Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave) is About 90 cm tall and 90-120 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave)?
Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave): 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 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave)?
The price of Agave 'Sharkskin' (Sharkskin agave) 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 victoriae-reginae: Appendix II
- Ministry of the Environment, list of Invasive Alien Species (no Agave listed)
- MAFF plant variety registration database (no registered Agave varieties)
- San Marcos Growers: Agave 'Sharkskin'
- PUKUBOOK succulent encyclopedia: シャークスキン
- GBIF（親 A. victoriae-reginae）
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Agave nickelsiae × scabra 'Sharkskin'
Authority databases: GBIF（親 A. victoriae-reginae）
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
One parent, A. ferdinandi-regis (treated by CITES as a synonym of A. victoriae-reginae), is listed in CITES Appendix II, and under CITES plant hybrids with a listed parent are generally covered too, so this hybrid is treated as Appendix II. Import and export require CITES permits, but no registration or notification is needed to buy, sell or give plants within Japan. It is 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 victoriae-reginae: Appendix II / 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.
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