Agave maximiliana (Maguey Lechuguilla) Plant

Description

Agave maximiliana is a large, stately agave species native to the highlands of western Mexico, particularly in the states of Jalisco and Nayarit. It is known for its tall, elegant form and is one of the agaves used in the production of raicilla, a traditional Mexican spirit similar to mezcal.

Agave maximiliana is one of the primary species used in crafting raicilla, a smoky distilled spirit from Jalisco, similar to mezcal but with its own distinct production methods and flavours. Traditionally it is harvested and cooked in underground pits before being fermented and distilled

The rosettes are large and open, reaching up to 1.8 metres in diameter. The leaves are long, slightly arching, bluish-green to grey-green with small marginal teeth and a sharp terminal spine. Agave maximiliana blooms after many years, producing a tall flowering stalk (up to 6 metres) with green to yellow flowers The plant dies after flowering but may produce offsets (“pups”) at the base.

This agave is a striking focal point for large xeriscapes or desert-themed gardens. Culturally it is important in agave spirit heritage, especially in artisanal distillation.

 

• Common Name.

Maximilian Agave; Maguey Tecolote; Maguey Manso; Raicilla Mescal Agave

 

• Specifications.

Seed Grown Plant
Bare Rooted

 

Ideal Growing Conditions.

Agave maximiliana is a tolerant plant, it can be placed in direct sunlight or shade and requires minimal watering.  It thrives in highly porous, sandy potting soil, and should be allowed to dry out between waterings. Repotting annually in the spring is recommended.

Pruning: Remove dead or damaged leaves at the base with gloves and long sleeves (spines are sharp!). Remove offsets (“pups”) from the base to control spread or replant them.

Pests and Diseases: Agave maximiliana are generally low-maintenance but can be affected by Agave snout weevil (borers into the base), Mealybugs or scale insects on leaves. Ensure good airflow and drainage to prevent rot or infestations.

Soil: You need a high quality potting mix, not a pre-bagged product such as you find at Bunnings etc, try a landscaping place. However, as I am not local to you I still can’t say if they have good quality or not. You are looking for well composted pine bark and large particles. This ensures air flow to the roots and good drainage. When time to re-pot, select a pot one size up ONLY and ensure it has many holes for good drainage.

Fertiliser: We recommend and use Yates Nutricote Standard Black 270 Day Controlled Release Fertiliser however any good quality slow release fertiliser will do. We also stock an Australian Made liquid indoor fertiliser The Plant Runner Indoor Plant Food which is easy to use and odourless.

 

 

We cannot send plants to Western Australia & Tasmania due to restrictions.

 

We strongly recommended to select Express Post shipping for all plant orders to minimise the transit time.

 

 

Interested in Agave’s? Have a look at our other products

Agave potatorum ‘Purple Haze’ (Purple Haze Agave) Plant

Agave parryi var. huachucensis ‘Wakefield’ (Giant Huachuca Agave) Plant

Agave americana (Century Plant) Plant

 

 

 

*Traditional uses and general information on products are provided for educational purposes only. We do not make any therapeutic claims. Nothing contained in this site is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional’s advice.