Agave bracteosa "Mateo" - 1ga

Agave 'Mateo' is a drought-tolerant succulent hybrid known for its upright growth and spineless leaves, discovered in 2003 at San Marcos Growers. Combining features of Agave bracteosa and Agave lophantha, it forms a solitary rosette of medium-green leaves with a distinctive pale band down the center. The leaves grow vertically and arch gracefully back towards the plant, typically reaching 2-3 feet in height and width. It flowers infrequently, producing a spicate inflorescence up to 15 feet tall with green tepals and long yellow stamens. Selected by Matthew Roberts from Agave bracteosa seedlings, it is thought to be a hybrid with Agave lophantha and was propagated through division and tissue culture. Thriving in full sun to light shade, Agave 'Mateo' prefers well-drained soil and has low water needs, making it ideal for xeriscaping. Hardy to temperatures as low as 10-15°F (USDA zones 8a to 12), it performs well in garden beds and containers. Suitable for cactus and succulent gardens, rock gardens, and desert landscapes, its compact size and architectural form make it a good candidate for container planting. The spineless leaves also make it safer for gardens frequented by children and pets.