Agave pacifica Trel.
Pacific Agave
Agave pacifica is the characteristic agave of Mexico's Pacific coast, distributed from Sinaloa to Jalisco in coastal environments, tropical dry scrubland, and rocky slopes near the sea. It forms medium to large rosettes with linear-lanceolate, grey-green leaves with toothed margins and a prominent terminal spine. It is a producer of high-quality fiber among indigenous communities of the region. Monocarpic, it flowers once before dying, producing a tall paniculate inflorescence.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Agave |
| Growth Habit | Acaulescent to short-stemmed rosette, medium to large, frequently with basal offsets; grows on coastal slopes and tropical dry scrublands. |
| Conservation Status | Least concern at regional level; coastal populations vulnerable to urbanization and tourism. Not listed under Mexican federal protection. |
| pH Target | 6.5 – 8.0 |
| Type | Sandy to rocky, well-drained, coastal or slope soils; neutral to slightly alkaline pH. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Linear-lanceolate, 60–100 cm long × 6–10 cm wide; grey-green to glaucous; margins with curved corneous teeth 3–8 mm, reddish-brown; robust terminal spine 3–6 cm.
ecoYellow to yellowish-green; 60–80 mm long; in dense panicle atop 4–7 m scape; pollinated by bats, bees and hummingbirds.
ecoShort-stemmed to acaulescent; floral scape up to 7 m tall, with numerous branches in the upper third.
ecoFibrous and extensive; anchor the plant in coastal sandy and rocky substrates; tolerant of moderate salinity.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy to rocky, well-drained, coastal or slope soils; neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
S
F
Every 3–5 years or when roots outgrow the container.
One application of diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer at the start of the rainy season.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Irritating sap with saponins and oxalates; terminal spine and marginal teeth represent mechanical risk. No severe systemic toxicity.
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Plant Health
Root rot – favored by poorly drained substrates or overwatering.
Mealybugs (Pseudococcus spp.) – inspect the leaf bases periodically.
Agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus) – lethal borer; remove affected plants immediately.
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"Described by William Trelease. Key species in the ethnobotany of the Mexican Pacific; the Huichol and Cora peoples use it for fiber and as a ceremonial plant."
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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.