Agave Isthmensis Dwarf Butterfly  is a small Agave forming a compact rosette. It's leaves are a muted blue-grey color and are relatively wide with wavy, scalloped edges. Each leaf terminates in a sharp, reddish-brown spine. Along the wavy margins, there are also smaller, similarly colored teeth. The overall appearance is a dense, symmetrical rosette with a somewhat ruffled texture to the leaf edges.
 
Agave isthmensis 'Dwarf Butterfly' is a charming, small succulent prized for its compact rosette and distinctive leaf markings. This cultivar is a smaller, more manageable form of Agave isthmensis, often showcasing attractive blue-grey leaves adorned with contrasting creamy-white or yellow variegation along the margins. Its petite size and striking appearance make it a popular choice for container gardening and rock gardens.
 
Key Features of Agave isthmensis 'Dwarf Butterfly'
Compact Rosette: Forms a tight, symmetrical rosette of leaves, typically remaining small in size.
Blue-Grey Foliage: The leaves exhibit a lovely blue-grey to silvery-grey hue.
Short Terminal Spine: Each leaf terminates in a short, often dark-colored spine.
Finely Toothed Leaf Margins: The leaf edges usually have small, delicate teeth.
Slow Growth Rate: Grows relatively slowly, maintaining its compact form for an extended period.
Monocarpic Flowering: Like other agaves, it will eventually produce a tall flower stalk once mature, after which the main rosette typically dies.
 
Care for Your Agave isthmensis 'Dwarf Butterfly'
Light: Thrives in full sun, which intensifies its colors and variegation. It can tolerate some light shade, but full sun is best for optimal growth and appearance.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix amended with extra perlite or sand is ideal.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Agaves are very drought-tolerant. Overwatering is a significant risk, especially in cooler months.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is relatively cold-hardy, but it's best to protect it from prolonged freezing conditions, especially when young or in containers.
Humidity: Adapts well to low humidity and does not require special humidity considerations.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Agave isthmensis 'Dwarf Butterfly'
Removing Dead Leaves: As the lower leaves naturally dry out, they can be carefully removed to maintain a tidy appearance.
Handling with Care: Be cautious when handling due to the sharp terminal spines and finely toothed margins.
Protection from Extreme Cold: In regions with harsh winters, provide protection such as bringing container plants indoors or covering in-ground plants.
Monitoring for Pests and Diseases: Agaves are generally pest and disease resistant, but watch for scale or mealybugs occasionally. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Pups): Mature agaves often produce offsets or "pups" around the base of the main plant. These can be carefully separated once they have developed their own root system. Allow the cut surfaces to callus over for a few days before potting them individually in well-draining soil.
Seed: Propagation by seed is possible but can be a slow process. Seeds need warm temperatures and well-draining soil to germinate. However, variegation may not be reliably passed on through seeds.
 
Agave isthmensis 'Dwarf Butterfly' is a delightful, small agave prized for its attractive variegated foliage and compact form. Its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance make it a wonderful addition to any succulent collection or arid garden.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.