Agave gypsophila Gentry
Gypsum agave
Agave gypsophila is one of the most extraordinary species of the genus, with narrow leaves featuring strongly undulating or crisped margins, giving it a completely different appearance from other agaves and making it a coveted piece for collectors. Its epithet 'gypsophila' indicates its affinity for gypseous (calcium sulfate-rich) soils on the Oaxacan coast, where it grows in conditions of extreme heat and moderate relative humidity from the Pacific. It also produces offsets, ensuring clonal persistence in the collection.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Agave |
| Growth Habit | Open medium-sized rosette with strongly undulating narrow leaves. Produces basal offsets. Short stem. |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable (VU) — IUCN. Restricted to gypseous coastal soils of Oaxaca; habitat threatened by coastal development. |
| pH Target | 7.5–9.0 |
| Type | Gypseous, calcareous, sandy, very well-drained, alkaline |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Linear to narrowly lanceolate, 40–80 cm long, 3–6 cm wide, grey-green. Margins with pronounced undulations of 2–4 cm amplitude and small corneous teeth on the crests. Fine terminal spine 2–4 cm.
ecoYellowish-green, 5–6 cm, arranged in an open panicle on a 3–5 m scape. Single bloom after 8–18 years.
ecoShort caudex (5–15 cm) with firm base. Offsets emerge from the base via short rhizomes.
ecoShallow root system adapted to soils low in organic matter but rich in gypsum (CaSO₄). High tolerance for alkaline pH.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Gypseous, calcareous, sandy, very well-drained, alkaline
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
D
U
Every 5–7 years; very slow-growing.
Mineral fertilizer with calcium and magnesium, without extra phosphorus, once at the start of spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Sharp terminal spine and leaf teeth. Slightly irritating sap. No documented systemic toxicity.
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Plant Health
Root rot (Phytophthora cinnamomi) — especially severe in substrates with poor drainage or acidic pH; contrary to its natural habitat.
Scale insects (Dactylopius spp.) — occasional; monitor in indoor cultivation conditions.
Agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus) — risk present in any outdoor agave collection.
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"Gypsophily (ability to grow in gypsum-rich soils) is a rare trait in succulents. Agave gypsophila is one of the few agaves with this edaphic specialization. In cultivation, adding agricultural gypsum to the substrate noticeably improves the plant's coloration and vigor."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.