Agave montana
One of the biggest challenges when growing arid plants such as Agaves in the UK is their inability to deal with damp conditions. Pretty tricky in our climate! So when Toby Shobbrook (Palm Centre manager) went plant hunting with Paul Spracklin (garden designer) in north-eastern Mexico in 2004, they were intrigued to see a large Agave growing in shaded pine forest at around 3,000 feet in elevation. Not only were these plants incredibly beautiful, but they appeared to favour a shadier location and were subject to cool, damp winters. The plants they were looking at were Agave montana, a species that is arguably the best of the Agavaceae family to grow in the UK.
Growing the Mountain Agave
Agave montana, commonly known as mountain agave, showcases a striking and architectural presence. It forms an large solitary rosette composed of densely packed, spined, deep-green leaves.
Originating from the mountainous regions of Mexico, this species thrives in environments exposed to cool, moist clouds, offering a more temperate climate compared to many other agaves.
Its adaptability to such conditions makes Agave montana well-suited for the British climate, outperforming some of its less resilient relatives. Remarkably, it has demonstrated the ability to withstand harsh British winters without requiring any protective measures.
For optimal growth, cultivate Agave montana in well-drained soil under full sun exposure, and exercise restraint in watering.
