Agave lophantha ‘Splendida’

Description

Agave lophantha ‘Splendida’ the imaginatively named ‘Centre Stripe Agave’ is an attractive agave, smaller than most usually growing to around 40cm in diameter and height. With deep green leaves having as you’ve probably guessed a paler lime green central band. You may also be wondering how ‘Splendida’ differs from the species. Well apparently, Agave lophantha ‘Splendida’ was discovered by a grower in Carolina who noticed the toothy spines alongside each leaf are whitish and the colours are brighter than the species.

For us what is important is that this is a rather dandy agave which is easy to accommodate in a container or planted in a very mild garden. I’ve seen mention that it is very hardy, that may be the case during a dry cold desert night but in my experience this agave needs protection during the cold winter months and needs to be kept dry.