Agave schottii var. schottii

by

The Remarkable Agave Schottii var. Schottii: A Desert Dweller’s Delight of the Southwest

1. Introduction

Agave schottii var. schottii, a remarkable succulent from the agave family, is a captivating plant earning admiration for its architectural form and resilience. This slow-growing agave, often called Schott’s Century Plant or the Littleleaf Agave, offers a striking presence in xeriscapes and gardens, providing year-round interest with its unique characteristics. Beyond its ornamental value, this agave holds historical intrigue and potential for sustainable uses. Did you know that, unlike some other agaves, Agave schottii var. schottii can sometimes produce pups along the edges of its leaves, creating a unique cascading effect? This fascinating trait, alongside its adaptability, makes it a captivating subject to explore.

2. Origin and Natural Habitat

Agave schottii var. schottii is primarily native to a relatively localized region in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its distribution spans southwestern Arizona and southern California in the US, and extends into the Mexican states of Sonora and Baja California.

In its natural habitat, Agave schottii var. schottii thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, typically found in rocky canyons, and desert washes. The climate where this agave excels is characterized by long hot summers, mild winters, infrequent rainfall, and intense sunlight. Soil types are often well-drained and rocky, which is crucial as the plant is highly intolerant of water-logged conditions. Alongside conditions of low rainfall and high heat, many Agave schottii var. schottii populations also experience an average annual temperature range of up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, a condition that the plant is ideally suited to. Characteristic companion plants in these desert communities include various species of cacti, creosote bush, ocotillo, and other drought-tolerant shrubs and succulents, demonstrating its role in a well-adapted community.

3. Common Names and Etymology

Agave schottii var. schottii is commonly known as:

  • Schott’s Century Plant
  • Littleleaf Agave
  • Shin Dagger (in parts of Arizona due to its sharp, spiky leaves)

The scientific name reflects its discoverers and botanical characteristics. Agave comes from the Greek word "agavos" (agauos) meaning "noble" or "admirable," reflecting the plant’s stately form. The species name, schottii, honors Arthur Schott, a German-born botanist and explorer who collected plant specimens in the American Southwest in the mid-19th century. The subspecific epithet, schottii var. schottii, is present because there is a variety of the plant. The name suggests that Schott contributed significantly to documenting this particular agave type. The common name, Shin Dagger, relates to the sharp and spiky leaves which can inflict injury if handled carelessly – indicating an historical context of caution with the plant.

4. Plant Description and Characteristics

Agave schottii var. schottii presents a unique and appealing visual presence.

  • Size and Growth Habit: This agave is a moderately sized species, typically forming a dense, clumping rosette. Mature plants usually reach a height of 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) and a width of 2 to 3 feet (60-90 cm), a relatively small size compared to many other agave species. It is slow-growing, adding only a few inches of new growth each year.
  • Leaf Characteristics: The leaves are a distinctive feature of this agave. They are narrow, elongated, and lanceolate, often displaying a slight curvature. The leaf color is typically a muted grey-green to blue-green, sometimes with a slightly glaucous (waxy) coating, which gives them a subtle, powdery appearance. The margins of the leaves are lined with small, sharp, reddish-brown spines, creating a formidable defense. The tips of the leaves terminate in a sharp terminal spine, making it important to handle with precautions. Sometimes, pups can develop along the leaf margins.
  • Flower Characteristics (if applicable): While Agave schottii var. schottii does flower, flowering is not common. The plant is monocarpic, meaning it flowers only once in its lifetime, often after many years, then dies, with the new pups taking over. The flower stalk, if it appears, is unbranched, and can reach a height of 5 to 10 feet. The flowers themselves are generally tubular within the Agave genus, yellow-green, reddish or purplish in colour. Exact bloom times can depend on location and climate, flowers typically bloom in the summer months, and the plant dies after seed release.
  • Unique Features: As previously noted, a particularly unique feature is its tendency to produce offsets or "pups" along the leaf edges, allowing them to cascade down the side of the mother plant. These can easily be propagated into new plants, providing beautiful visual displays.

5. Uses

Agave schottii var. schottii has a place in garden settings, but other uses are not widely documented.

  • Culinary Uses: The inner heart of some other agave species are often used as a food source, Agave schottii var. schottii lacks the substantial size of other familiar Agave species, such as Agave tequilana and Agave americana. The consumption of its inner heart is not typical.
  • Fiber and Industrial Uses: The leaves may provide a small amount of fiber for traditional rope-making, but it’s not a commercially viable fiber source.
  • Medicinal Uses (if any): There is little documentation of medicinal uses for Agave schottii var. schottii. As with all plants, consuming or applying parts should be done with extreme caution and proper expertise. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any agave species for medicinal purposes.
  • Ornamental Uses: Agave schottii var. schottii is most prominently used as an ornamental in landscaping. Its compact size, striking form, and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and succulent collections. It adds textural contrast and architectural interest to gardens and also, is an excellent choice for container gardening
  • Other Uses: This is not a species that is used for the production of Tequila or Mezcal.

6. How to Grow Agave schottii var. schottii

Growing Agave schottii var. schottii is typically straightforward for those who can provide the right growing conditions.

  • Climate and Hardiness: It thrives in USDA hardiness zones 8a to 11b. Agave schottii var. schottii prefers full sun for optimal growth and vibrant color. However, it can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates. It’s fairly frost-tolerant, enjoying temperatures that may drop to the low 20s Fahrenheit (-6 to -7 Celsius) for short periods.
  • Soil Requirements: Excellent drainage is critical. The ideal soil is a well-draining mix of sand, gravel, and a small amount of organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils, which can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0) is suitable.
  • Watering: Water sparingly. During the growing season (spring and summer), water deeply but infrequently allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering. Reduce or halt watering during the dormant winter months. Agave schottii var. schottii is highly drought-tolerant once established.
  • Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly, if at all. Over-fertilizing, especially with nitrogen, can lead to leggy growth and make the plant more susceptible to pests or diseases. A light application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for succulents or cacti in spring can be beneficial.
  • Container Growing (if applicable): It is well-suited for container growing. Use a well-draining cactus/succulent potting mix and a container with drainage holes. Repot every few years as needed.
  • Maintenance: Minimal maintenance is required. Remove any dead or dried leaves. Be cautious when handling this agave due to its sharp spines.

7. Propagation Methods

Propagating Agave schottii var. schottii is relatively simple using these methods.

  • Offsets: The most reliable method is by separating offsets or "pups" that emerge from the base or along the leaf margins of the mother plant. Wait until the offsets are at least a few inches in size before carefully detaching them from the parent plant. Allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days to prevent rot, and then plant them in a well-draining soil mix.
  • Bulbils: Although common in other Agave species, Agave schottii var. schottii rarely produces bulbils.
  • Seeds: Seed propagation is possible but slow and less common. Seeds from mature plants can be collected when the seed pods dry and open. Sow seeds on the surface of a well-draining soil mix, keeping them slightly moist and warm until germination occurs. Then, carefully transplant the seedlings.
  • Hybridisation: Hybridisation occurs but is not readily feasible for the home gardener. This involves cross-pollinating two plants, where seeds can be collected and grown.

8. Pests and Diseases

Agave schottii var. schottii is generally pest and disease-resistant, but, like all agaves, it can be susceptible to a few problems.

  • Pests: Scale insects (e.g., mealybugs), agave snout weevil, and occasionally aphids can infest the plant. Control these pests by hand-picking, using insecticidal soap, or applying neem oil. Proper airflow and avoiding overcrowding plants can help prevent infestations.
  • Diseases: Root rot is the most significant disease threat, caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Prevention is key; ensure adequate drainage. Fungal infections can sometimes occur in humid conditions; treat with a copper-based fungicide if necessary.

9. Cultivars and Related Species

There are no widely recognized cultivars of Agave schottii var. schottii. Few, if any, hybrids containing this variety have been documented. Agave schottii is closely related to other small, clumping agaves that exist in the Southwest.

10. Conclusion

Agave schottii var. schottii presents a captivating landscape choice, with a great capacity to grow in gardens, while providing ecological adaptation. Its striking small size, drought tolerance, and relatively easy care make it an excellent option for both beginner and experienced succulent enthusiasts. Consider adding this unique agave to your garden palette, whether you’re creating a xeriscape, a rock garden, or simply looking for a stunning container plant. It will provide beauty, resilience, and, most probably, a future generation of pups.

11. Visuals

Insert Images here:

  1. Large Image of a mature Agave schottii var. schottii in full sun
  2. Close up of the leaf edges, showing spines and potential pups.
  3. Map showing the geographical distribution of the plant.
  4. Photo of the flower structure.