Agave 'Pineapple Express Variegated', also marketed as 'Summer Splice', is a striking succulent hybrid that brings a tropical flair to any collection. While formally within the genus Agave, it's often recognized for its Mangave lineage, a successful intergeneric cross known for combining the architectural beauty of Agave with the faster growth rate and softer spines of Manfreda. This particular cultivar is prized for its vibrant variegated foliage and unique texture.
 
Key Features of Agave 'Pineapple Express Variegated' ('Summer Splice')
Architectural Rosettes: Forms impressive rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves.
Variegated Foliage: Displays striking variegation, typically featuring a mix of green and creamy yellow or white stripes along the leaf margins. The intensity of the variegation can vary with light exposure.
Wavy Leaf Margins: The leaf edges often exhibit an attractive wavy or rippled appearance, adding to its visual interest.
Soft Spines: While possessing marginal teeth, they tend to be softer and less formidable than those of many traditional Agaves, a trait inherited from its Manfreda parentage. A terminal spine is usually present but is also relatively soft.
Moderate Size: Reaches a manageable size for container gardening and landscape use.
Relatively Fast Growth (for an Agave): Exhibits a faster growth rate compared to many pure Agave species, thanks to its Manfreda influence.
 
Care for Your Agave 'Pineapple Express Variegated' ('Summer Splice')
Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun will enhance the vibrancy of the variegation.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to a range of humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Agave 'Pineapple Express Variegated' ('Summer Splice')
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette to maintain a tidy appearance.
Repotting (If in Containers): Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a sturdy pot due to the plant's eventual size.
Pest Control: Generally pest-resistant, but monitor for common succulent pests like scale or mealybugs.
Infrequent Fertilizing: Does not require heavy feeding. A diluted balanced fertilizer can be applied once or twice during the growing season.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Pups): Mature plants may produce offsets from the base. These can be carefully separated once they have developed their own root system. Allow the cut areas to callus over before planting.
Seed (Hybrid Variability): Propagation from seed is possible but may not result in offspring that retain the exact variegated characteristics of the parent plant due to its hybrid nature.
 
Agave 'Pineapple Express Variegated', or 'Summer Splice', is a visually stunning and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent that offers a unique combination of architectural form and vibrant variegation. Its softer spines and faster growth rate make it a desirable choice for adding a touch of the tropics to any succulent enthusiast's collection or landscape.
 
 
* 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.