Publication: (Hybrid)
Description
Agave x nigra is a most popular cross between Agave victoriae-reginae and Agave scabra (syn. Agave asperrima) or, possibly, between Agave x ferdinandi-regis x Agave scabra. It is appreciated for its architectural shape, it is so particular that it cannot be confused with any other agave if not other rare hybrids of Agave victoriae-reginae.
Rosette: Smallish, surculose, acaulescent, openly spreading, bold, robust 50-60 cm in diameter and tall (or rarely exceeds one meter).
Leaves: Thickly, succulent, rigid, hollowed above, heavily keeled below, stiff, erect, lanceolate to triangular, narrowed and thickened toward base, rough and leathery to touch, (earning it’s other common nickname ‘Sharkskin Agave’), very deep grey-blue, with one stout purple-black terminal spine, margins smooth of the same purple-black colour.
Flowers: Yellowish on top of a flowering stem of 4 meters high. Flowers are sterile.
Blooming seson: Summer. The flowers appear only after a fortnight of years, then the parent plant dies.
Origin and Habitat
It is thought to be a natural hybrid found in Sonora (Mexico) but now common only in cultivation.
Cultivation and Propagation
The agave Nigra is very decorative. It is a fast growing and frost-hardy plant, resistant down to about -8° ( -12° C if dry). It needs large pots to develop its full potential. It can also be planted in rock garden or in groups. The soil must be drained. Organic fertilizer and watering needed to accelerate growth.
Propagation: It is a sterile hybrid that can only be multiplied by suckers that are profusely produced by younger plants and also in a smaller number throughout his life.
