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(Agave lechuguilla)
Shindagger (Agave lechuguilla)
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CK Kelly
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
CK Kelly
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: CK Kelly | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: CK Kelly | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-02-16T00:18:09Z |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Agave lechuguilla, commonly known as Shindagger, is an evergreen succulent plant native to the Southwestern USA and Mexico, particularly the Chihuahuan Desert, specifically thriving in arid conditions such as rocky slopes, calcareous soils, and arroyos. It is endemic to this desert and serves as an indicator species, signifying the health of the ecosystem. Agave lechuguilla typically forms rosettes of tough, spiky leaves that can deter animals due to their sharp tips. The leaves are green to blue-green, with yellow or white margins and a terminal spine. This species can flower anytime from three to 21 years of age, producing a tall, leafless stalk up to 3.7 meters (12 feet) high. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stalk, showcasing funnel-shaped blooms in shades of purple, red, and yellow, which are particularly attractive to pollinators such as insects, bats, and birds. After flowering, the plant completes its life cycle and dies.
The Shindagger is valued in xeriscaping and as an ornamental plant in rock gardens due to its unique form and low water requirements. It is well-suited to full sun exposure and prefers soils with excellent drainage, typically requiring very little maintenance. However, its sharp leaves can pose a hazard in gardens where people or pets may come into contact with the plant. Additionally, it has no significant disease or pest issues but can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Shindagger is valued in xeriscaping and as an ornamental plant in rock gardens due to its unique form and low water requirements. It is well-suited to full sun exposure and prefers soils with excellent drainage, typically requiring very little maintenance. However, its sharp leaves can pose a hazard in gardens where people or pets may come into contact with the plant. Additionally, it has no significant disease or pest issues but can be sensitive to overwatering, which may lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 8-12 feet
- Width: 8-10 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
native to the Southwestern USA and Mexico, particularly the Chihuahuan Desert, specifically thriving in arid conditions such as rocky slopes, calcareous soils, and arroyos
Other Names
Common Names: Lechuguilla
Scientific Names: , Agave lechuguilla,
GBIF Accepted Name: Agave lechuguilla Torr.