Agave vilmoriniana ‘Stained Glass’

variegated octopus agave
Variegated octopus agave has creamy yellow margins. Dynamic look; no thorns; spectacular bloom ends life.
height 3–4ft
width 5–6ft
tolerates Drought, Wind
water
needs		 Low – Moderate
water
info		 Agave plants are extremely drought tolerant on coastal California. This one will need a bit more than most, however, especially during summer. Deep bi-weekly watering in well drained soil is recommended during that time.
hardy
to		 25F
exposure Part Sun – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix
fertilizing All Purpose 1/2 Strength, Low Needs
origin Mexico
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 13, 15–17, 19–24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Almost all agave, including this one, are monocarpic, meaning that a head will grow larger and larger over time, building up energy, then send off a spectacular flower, after which it will decline and die. With pupping varieties, like this one, they grow from stolons at the base, constantly replacing the older bloomed-out heads with new ones, which then grow larger and flower, continuing the life cycle.

Special Interest

Blooms in 7-10 years and the flower is notable. The flower spike is 10-20 feet tall with hundreds of tiny golden hello flowers giving the entire spike a fluffy appearance. Afterward the spike sets with dozens of bulbils that can be replanted.