Agave stictata Thiede & Eggli
Spotted Agave
Agave stictata is a species described by Joachim Thiede and Urs Eggli in 2013, resulting from the taxonomic transfer of Manfreda stictata to the genus Agave following the merger of Manfreda, Polianthes, and Agave into a broadened genus. It is distinguished by its elongated leaves with characteristic brown or purple spotting on a green background, a trait inherited from its Manfreda affinity. Native to northeastern Mexico (Tamaulipas, Nuevo León, San Luis Potosí, Hidalgo), it grows in thorny scrublands, semi-arid grasslands, and oak forests at 400–1,800 m elevation. Unlike most agaves, it has less rigid leaves and a more herbaceous habit.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Agave |
| Growth Habit | Herbaceous acaulescent to subcaulescent rosette, medium-sized (30–60 cm tall, 40–80 cm diameter), monocarpic. Leaves softer and more flexible than typical agaves, with a Manfreda-like texture. Produces rhizomatous offsets and basal bulblets. |
| Conservation Status | Not formally assessed by the IUCN under its current name. As Manfreda stictata it was considered a species of least concern in its northeastern Mexican range. Possible threats: habitat conversion and extraction for the succulent trade. |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy-loam to silty soil, moderately free-draining, with medium organic matter content; typical of semi-arid grasslands and forest-scrubland transitions. Slightly acidic to neutral pH. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Lanceolate to linear, semi-erect leaves 30–60 cm long and 2–5 cm wide, medium green, with irregular mottling of brownish-purple spots on the adaxial surface. Margins with small, corneous teeth 1–3 mm or nearly entire in some populations. Short apical spine 0.5–1.5 cm, less pungent than in classic agaves. Texture slightly leathery.
ecoSlender spike 1–2.5 m tall, without lateral branches (a trait inherited from Manfreda). Tubular greenish-yellow to greenish-white flowers, tinged purple on tepals, 3–5 cm long, nocturnal and sweetly fragrant. Pollinated by nocturnal moths and hawkmoths (Sphingidae).
ecoVery short, bulbous-rhizomatous stem at base. The rhizome region produces offsets and bulblets allowing vegetative propagation. The central tissue accumulates fructans in lesser quantities than large-sized agaves.
ecoFibrous, relatively shallow root system with better-developed fleshy storage roots than in typical agaves. Adapted to soils with moderate organic matter, typical of semi-arid grasslands and oak forest edges. Requires better water supply than strictly desert agaves.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-loam to silty soil, moderately free-draining, with medium organic matter content; typical of semi-arid grasslands and forest-scrubland transitions. Slightly acidic to neutral pH.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
G
K
Every 2–4 years as its rhizomatous system fills containers relatively quickly.
Fertilise in spring and mid-summer with dilute balanced fertiliser (NPK 10-10-10) at a quarter dose. The species responds better to moderate nutrition than desert agaves.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No significant documented toxicity to humans. Sap may cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Apical spines are short and less dangerous than in typical agaves.
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Plant Health
Root and rhizome rot (Fusarium / Pythium spp.)
Mealybug (Pseudococcus spp.)
Agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus)
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"The transfer of Manfreda stictata to Agave by Thiede & Eggli in 2013 remains controversial for some taxonomists who prefer to maintain Manfreda as an independent genus. Molecular phylogenies published by Good-Avila et al. (2006) and Bogler et al. support the inclusion of Manfreda within Agave s.l. The combination of the characteristic leaf spotting, simple spike inflorescence, and sweetly scented flowers are the most useful diagnostic traits. Photographically, most existing herbarium images were generated under the name Manfreda stictata."
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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.