| First we offer
you a little history on the origin of this most famous plant. It was
always assumed that it was created by its well known propagator and main source of plants,
Ed Hummel. The horticultural wizard Ed Hummel operated a unique nursery and was especially active in the trade in
the 1960's and 70's. But in fact this cultivar originated in the garden of plantsman Chet Emery (1911-1983) of Burbank California. All plants are
vegetative propagations of this one sport. Cultivation: this is an unusual plant in the sense that it's very slow when small but once you have it up to about 8 inches in diameter, it couldn't be easier. The main challenge when small is giving it full-bright light but not scorching sun and temperatures that are moderate with plenty of moisture. This is a must due to lack of chlorophyll in the highly variegated leaves which makes it a rather delicate plant especially for an agave. But once you have it to 8 inches or so, it becomes very robust but still slow growing. Mature plants form a stem with rosettes reaching 36 inches in diameter. Care should be taken to avoid temperatures below 50 degrees F. Otherwise leaves will quickly develop large brown spots. Without question a truly stunning plant. |
 Agave attenuata aurea - 15 inch plant
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