Agave lophantha Schiede ex Kunth
Texas Agave
Agave lophantha, known as maguey cuerno de toro or Texas agave, is a species native to southern Texas and Tamaulipas, Mexico. Many authors now recognise Agave univittata as the correct name under the International Code of Nomenclature, with A. lophantha being its most widely used horticultural synonym. It is highly valued in cultivation for its attractive green leaves with a pale yellow-green central stripe (the 'Quadricolor' variety has up to four colour bands), regular toothed margins, and a robust dark terminal spine. It forms compact to medium rosettes that readily produce offsets, making it very accessible in nurseries. Its resistance to cold, drought, and poor soils makes it one of the most versatile agaves for Mediterranean and semi-arid garden climates.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Agave |
| Growth Habit | Compact to medium rosette (60–100 cm diameter), acaulescent, monocarpic. Produces basal offsets regularly. Moderately fast growing for an agave. |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) – IUCN. Widely cultivated; wild populations in Texas are locally vulnerable due to habitat loss. |
| pH Target | 6.5–8.0 |
| Type | Sandy-calcareous, stony, well drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Linear-lanceolate, 40–70 cm long and 3–6 cm wide, dark glossy green with a pale yellowish-green central stripe (diagnostic character). Margins with regular dark-brown corneous, spatulate teeth; terminal spine 2–4 cm, black.
ecoYellowish-green to reddish, 4–6 cm long, in a panicle on a scape 3–5 m tall. Flowers in summer. The plant dies after flowering, leaving numerous offsets.
ecoPractically acaulescent. The central piña is relatively small compared to other mezcal-producing species, 5–12 kg in mature specimens.
ecoFibrous and shallow, adapted to stony and calcareous soils. Efficient root system for capturing sporadic rainfall.
ecochevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-calcareous, stony, well drained
groups Beneficial Associations
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Propagation Strategy
S
E
Every 2–3 years or when offsets fill the container. Preferably transplant in spring.
One application of low-nitrogen fertilizer (5-10-10) in spring. Avoid excess nitrogen that stimulates soft growth susceptible to pests.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Moderate. Terminal spines and marginal teeth can cause wounds. Sap may irritate skin on prolonged contact.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Plant Health
Root rot (Phytophthora spp.) from excess moisture
Mealybugs (Pseudococcus spp.)
Agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus)
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
"The correct name under the International Code of Nomenclature is Agave univittata Haw. (1827), which predates A. lophantha Schiede (1829). However, 'lophantha' remains dominant in nurseries and horticultural literature. The cultivar 'Quadricolor', with four leaf bands (dark green, light green, cream, and yellow), is especially sought after by collectors."
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Scientific Integrity
🟡 MediumVote to help validate this record
Sources
Loading…
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.