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Cactus SucculentConservatory Greenhouse

Agave stricta

hedgehog

A succulent evergreen perennial with rosettes of narrow, spine-tipped dark green leaves to 40cm long. Small reddish flowers borne in dense, erect racemes to 2m long

Other common names
blue hedgehog
rabo de león

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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Red Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats): harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Agave can be perennial or monocarpic succulents, forming rosettes of usually rigid, fleshy, spiny-edged leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers in racemes or panicles often much taller than the rosettes

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information

Propagation

Propagate by offsets taken in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Mediterranean climate plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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