Agave lophantha 'Splendida' is a compact succulent that forms rosettes of stiff, lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are typically green with creamy-yellow to white margins, featuring distinctive reddish-brown teeth along the edges and a terminal spine at the tip. This variety is valued for its variegated foliage, which adds interest and color to gardens and landscapes. When mature, Agave lophantha 'Splendida' may produce a tall flower spike adorned with yellow-green flowers, although it is primarily grown for its ornamental foliage rather than its blooms. Agave lophantha 'Splendida' is native to Mexico and is well-suited to warm, arid climates. This succulent prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for gardens and landscapes in regions with hot, dry summers and mild winters.
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Scientific Name
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Agave lophantha 'Splendida' |
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Foliage: Evergreen
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The leaves are its most striking feature: dark, glossy green with a bold, bright chartreuse or yellowish-green stripe running right down the center.
Habit: It forms a symmetrical, starfish-like rosette. Over time, it will produce "pups" (offsets), eventually forming a small, colorful colony
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Mature Height
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12-18 inches (flower stalk can reach 10-12 feet) |
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Mature Width (Spread)
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18-24 inches |
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Growth Rate
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Slow to Moderate |
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USDA Zone
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7-11 (Cold hardy to approx. 0F to 10F) Agave lophantha 'Splendida' are not tolerant of frost or freezing temperatures for prolonged periods of time and may require protection or overwintering indoors in colder climates. |
Plant Care & Characteristics
Light Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade. Unlike many agaves that demand blistering sun, 'Splendida' is quite adaptable. It maintains its best color in full sun but can handle "bright shade" or dappled afternoon light, making it versatile for different garden spots. For best results, it should be planted in a location with plenty of sunlight and good air circulation to prevent issues such as fungal diseases.
Water Requirements: Low. It follows the typical succulent rule: water deeply and then allow the soil to dry out completely. During winter dormancy, it requires almost no supplemental water.
Drought Resistance: Exceptional. It is highly heat and drought-tolerant. Once established, it can survive on natural rainfall in most temperate-to-arid climates. Although Agave lophantha 'Splendida' is drought-tolerant, it may benefit from occasional watering during prolonged dry spells, particularly in hot summer months.
Soil Type: Well-Drained. It prefers lean, gritty, or sandy soils. While it can tolerate clay, the soil must be amended to ensure sharp drainage; sitting in wet, heavy soil will quickly lead to root rot. A gritty cactus mix or a blend of sandy soil and perlite can provide the ideal growing medium for Agave lophantha 'Splendida'.
Deer Resistance: High. The leaves are stiff and armed with prominent white "teeth" (spines) along the margins and a sharp terminal point, which effectively deters deer and rabbits.
Pest Resistance: This succulent is relatively pest-resistant but may occasionally be affected by aphids, mealybugs, or scale insects. These pests can usually be managed with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
