Agave verschaffeltii 'Minima Variegated' is a charming, small-growing agave prized for its compact rosettes and striking variegated foliage. This cultivar of Agave verschaffeltii features slender, arching leaves that are typically green with prominent creamy yellow or white variegation along the margins. Its smaller size makes it an excellent choice for container gardening and smaller succulent collections.
 
Key Features of Agave verschaffeltii 'Minima Variegated'
Compact Rosettes: Forms tight, symmetrical rosettes that remain relatively small.
Slender, Arching Leaves: The leaves are narrow and gracefully arch outwards.
Green Leaves with Creamy Yellow/White Variegation: Features a beautiful contrast between the green leaf body and the bright marginal stripes.
Soft Terminal Spine: Unlike many agaves, the terminal spine is often short and relatively soft.
Finely Toothed Margins: The leaf edges may have very small, inconspicuous teeth.
Slow Growth Rate: Grows at a slow to moderate pace, maintaining its compact form for an extended period.
Monocarpic Flowering: Like other agaves, it will eventually produce a tall flower spike after many years, after which the main rosette will die.
 
Care for Your Agave verschaffeltii 'Minima Variegated'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight to full sun. Adequate light is crucial for maintaining the vibrancy of the variegation.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A cactus or succulent potting mix is highly recommended.
Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This agave is drought-tolerant and susceptible to overwatering. Reduce watering significantly during the cooler months.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to typical low humidity levels and does not require special humidity considerations.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Agave verschaffeltii 'Minima Variegated'
Removing Dead Leaves: As the lower leaves naturally age and dry, they can be carefully removed to maintain a clean appearance.
Handling with Care: While the terminal spine is softer than some agaves, it's still wise to handle with some caution.
Protection from Extreme Cold: In regions with cold winters, container-grown plants should be brought indoors or provided with adequate protection.
Monitoring for Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant, but occasionally inspect for common succulent pests like scale or mealybugs. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Pups): Mature Agave verschaffeltii 'Minima Variegated' may produce offsets or "pups" around the base of the main rosette. 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. This is the most reliable method for maintaining the variegated characteristics.
Seed: Propagation by seed is possible but can be a slow process, and the resulting offspring may not retain the variegated traits of the parent plant.
 
Agave verschaffeltii 'Minima Variegated' is a delightful, small agave that offers beauty and architectural interest with its variegated, arching leaves and compact form. Its relatively easy care makes it a wonderful addition to any succulent enthusiast's collection.
 
 
* 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.