Agave 'Falling Waters', formerly classified as a Mangave, is a distinctive succulent prized for its gracefully arching, strap-like leaves and its relatively soft spines, making it a more approachable agave for many gardeners. This hybrid combines the architectural elegance of Agave with the softer foliage and faster growth rate often seen in Manfreda, resulting in a unique and visually appealing plant.
 
Key Features of Agave 'Falling Waters'
Arching, Strap-Like Leaves: The leaves are long, flexible, and arch downwards in a graceful, cascading manner, giving the plant its descriptive name.
Soft Marginal Spines: The leaf margins are lined with small, soft spines that are less formidable than those found on many traditional agaves, making it safer to handle.
Terminal Spine: Each leaf typically terminates in a short, soft spine.
Coloration: The leaves are usually a medium to deep green, often with subtle mottling or variegation depending on the specific cultivar.
Moderate Size: Reaches a manageable size, suitable for containers and garden beds.
Monocarpic Nature: Like other agaves, it is monocarpic, meaning it will flower once at the end of its life cycle, producing a tall flower stalk before dying.
 
Care for Your Agave 'Falling Waters'
Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun will encourage the best growth and coloration.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Agave 'Falling Waters'
Removing Dead Leaves: As the plant matures, lower leaves may naturally dry out. These can be carefully removed to maintain a tidy appearance.
Pest Control: Generally pest-resistant, but monitor for common succulent pests like scale or mealybugs.
Infrequent Repotting (If in Containers): Repot only when the plant has significantly outgrown its container, as it prefers to be slightly root-bound.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Pups): Mature plants may produce offsets or "pups" around the base. 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 planting.
Seed: Propagation from seed is possible after the plant flowers, but this marks the end of the mother plant's life. Seed propagation can also be a slower process and may not result in plants identical to the parent hybrid.
 
Agave 'Falling Waters' is a unique and attractive succulent that offers the architectural beauty of an agave with a softer touch. Its gracefully arching foliage and manageable size make it a wonderful addition to a variety of garden settings and container arrangements. While flowering marks the end of its life, the striking display is a final flourish to appreciate.
 
 
* 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.