Agave polianthiflora, commonly known as Mescalito, is an evergreen succulent native to the rocky and arid regions of Northern Mexico. It forms a compact basal rosette about 30 cm (12 in) in diameter. The leaves are narrow, lanceolate, and adorned with multiple white filaments along their edges, which is a distinctive feature. The red, tubular flowers are atypical for the genus, measuring 4–12.5 cm (1.6–4.9 in) in length, and they appear on a tall spike that can reach 100–200 cm (3.3–6.6 ft). The flowering event is infrequent, occurring only once at the end of the plant’s life cycle, after which the plant typically dies.

Mescalito is valued for its unique foliage and striking flower spike, making it a desirable ornamental plant for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a potted specimen in colder regions. It is relatively easy to grow from seed, as it rarely produces offsets. This Agave species requires minimal maintenance, thriving in shallow, well-drained soil with occasional fertilization during the growing season. It is drought-tolerant, preferring full sun to part shade. When grown in containers in cold climates, it can survive winter in a completely dark place. Gardeners should be aware that Agave polianthiflora has sharp leaf tips and edges that can be hazardous if not handled with care.CC BY-SA 4.0