Agave mckelveyana Gentry
McKelvey's Agave
Agave mckelveyana is an agave endemic to a very restricted geographic area in northwestern Arizona, specifically in the mountains and canyons of Mohave County. Formally described by Howard Scott Gentry, it was named in honor of botanist Sara McKelvey. It forms compact small rosettes compared to other regional agaves, inhabiting limestone and granite outcrops between 900 and 1500 m elevation. Its limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat disturbance and climate change.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Agave |
| Growth Habit | Compact dense rosette, slow-growing, with narrow erect leaves. Produces occasional basal offsets. The monocarpic flower spike reaches 3–4 m in height. |
| Conservation Status | Threatened (IUCN); total population estimated at fewer than 10,000 mature individuals distributed over an area less than 500 km². Federally protected in the US at several localities. |
| pH Target | 6.5–8.0 |
| Type | Limestone and granitic rock with skeletal soil; very low water retention |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Linear to lanceolate, 30–60 cm long and 2–5 cm wide, grey-green; margins with small teeth 3–6 mm at 1–3 cm intervals; slender terminal spine 2–4 cm.
ecoYellow to yellow-green, 4–5.5 cm long, in open panicles on spikes 3–4 m tall; produce abundant nectar attractive to bats and hummingbirds.
ecoShort compact caudex, slightly convex; produces few offsets. The plant lives 15–25 years before flowering and dying.
ecoShallow root system extending laterally to capture scarce rainfall on rocky substrate; some roots penetrate rock crevices for anchorage.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Limestone and granitic rock with skeletal soil; very low water retention
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
S
W
Every 4–6 years; prefer terracotta pots that evaporate moisture
Minimal fertilization: a single application of very dilute mineral fertilizer (¼ dose) at the start of spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Low toxicity; spines are the main physical hazard. Sap may cause mild skin irritation.
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Plant Health
Root rot (Pythium spp.) with any moisture excess, especially in winter
Citrus mealybug (Planococcus citri) at leaf bases in humid environments
Agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus): severe threat in botanical collections
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"A. mckelveyana is a clear example of microendemism in Mojave Desert agaves. Its entire range fits within a single county. The loss of native pollinators (bats of the genus Leptonycteris) represents an additional threat to its sexual reproduction."
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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.