Shira ito no ohi Variegated Thread-leaf Agave
A fantastic and unique variegated selection of an already fantastic agave, Shira ito no ohi looks more like a small intricate sculpture than a living being! The white threads coming off the leaves really accentuate the variegation and the symmetry of the whole plant has us swooning! Grows fairly slowly and requires well draining soil. Makes an excellent container plant where temperatures drop below 15º F.
Plant in extremely well draining soil in the brightest conditions if planting in ground. Otherwise it makes a fantastic container specimen and can be brought indoors when very cold weather is in the forecast.
Latin Name: Agave filifera ssp. schidigera ‘Shira ito no ohi’
Site and Soil: Full sun and very well-drained soil. Very drought tolerant once established and it will need little to no supplemental watering during the summer season, though a bit of summer water speeds growth.
Hardiness: Hardy to approx. 15º F, possibly lower with great drainage.
Size at Maturity: 1 ft. in height by 1 ft. wide
Bloom Time: early spring through summer every decade or so
Pests & Diseases: Not bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: 7b