American Agave (Manfreda Virginica)

American Agave

Features and Characteristics

Manfreda virginica, commonly called American aloe, false aloe, Virginia agave, or rattlesnake master, is a Missouri native plant which occurs most often in alkaline soils on rocky glades and in sandy open woods in the Ozark region. A rhizomatous perennial which forms large, basal rosettes of nearly flat, soft, fleshy, sword-shaped, dark green leaves (6″ to 20″ long and 2″ wide). Leaves may be flecked with red. From the center of each rosette rises an erect flower stalk to 4-5′ tall (less frequently to 6′). Up to 30 solitary, fragrant, pale yellowish-green, tube-shaped, three-lobed flowers (1″ long) are loosely arranged on the flower spike. Long summer bloom occasionally extends into fall. Flowers give way to capsule-like fruit. This plant is also sometimes sold as Agave virginica.

Genus name honors Manfredus de Monte Imperiali, an ancient writer.

Specific epithet means of Virginia.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, dry to medium, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Plant in a protected area in USDA Zone

American Agave (Manfreda Virginica) Requirements

Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No significant insect or disease problems.

Uses

Good plant for informal settings, such as wild gardens or native plant gardens or as part of a naturalized planting. Also may be used in a dry corner of the perennial border.

American Agave (Manfreda Virginica) Details

Common name	American Agave
Botanical name	Manfreda Virginica
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Asparagaceae
Hardiness zone	6 - 9
Water	Dry To Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	Yellow-Green
Flowering period	July - Oc- Ber
Height	3 - 6 Ft.
Width	3 - 4 Ft.