Agave (formally Mangave) - Purple People Eater

Agave 'Purple People Eater', a captivating hybrid resulting from a cross between Agave and Manfreda (formerly classified as Mangave), is a relatively compact succulent prized for its striking, deeply colored foliage and unique textural elements. This relatively low-maintenance plant offers a dramatic visual impact, making it a sought-after addition to succulent gardens and container arrangements.
 
Key Features of Agave 'Purple People Eater'
Rich Purple to Burgundy Foliage: The leaves exhibit deep shades of purple to burgundy, often intensifying in sunlight and cooler temperatures.
Wavy Leaf Margins: The leaf edges are distinctively wavy or rippled, adding an interesting textural element.
Soft Spines or Teeth: The leaf margins may have small, soft teeth or spines, which are generally not overly sharp.
Relatively Compact Size: Compared to many Agave species, 'Purple People Eater' remains relatively compact, making it suitable for smaller spaces.
Rosette Formation: Forms an attractive rosette of thick, fleshy leaves.
Potential for Flowering: Mature plants may produce a tall flower spike with unique blooms, though this is a monocarpic event, meaning the main rosette will die after flowering.
 
Care for Your Agave 'Purple People Eater'
Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun will enhance the purple 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 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 'Purple People Eater'
Removing Dead Leaves: Regularly remove any dead or dried leaves from the base of the rosette.
Repotting (If in Containers): Repot every few years or when the plant outgrows its container. Choose a sturdy pot with good drainage.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like scale and mealybugs. Treat any infestations promptly.
Fertilizing (Minimal): Generally does not require heavy fertilization. A diluted balanced liquid fertilizer can be applied sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer).
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Pups): Mature plants may produce offsets from the base, which can be carefully separated and repotted once they have developed their own roots.
Seed: Propagation from seed is possible but can be a slow process and may not result in plants identical to the parent hybrid.
 
Agave 'Purple People Eater' is a visually striking and relatively easy-to-care-for succulent prized for its deep purple foliage and wavy leaf margins. Its manageable size and dramatic coloration make it a wonderful addition to any succulent garden or container display.
 
 
* 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.