Mangave

Mangaves are hybrid crosses between manfredas and agaves.

Like manfredas, mangaves have interesting colors and patterns, grow quickly, and contain softer edges and tips.

And like agaves, mangaves have striking geometric shapes, high heat and drought tolerance, and a tendency to stay evergreen.

Botanical name: x Mangave

Other names: Manfreda agave hybrid

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Mangaves have fleshy leaves that grow from the center in a rosette form. Most are different shades of green, although some are purple, brown, yellow or a different color, sporting different patterns such as stripes or spots.

Evergreen leaves if grown in above freezing temperatures. Some lose their leaves when grown in cooler climates.

Overall, bold, geometric shapes. Most are compact, reaching 0.5-2 feet in height. Some varieties can be larger. The width is typically 1.5-2 times the height.

Typically does not grow a flower stalk at the end of its life like agaves, although some gardeners have reported the occasional mangave that does.

* The mangave varieties we carry are subject to change from time to time. The most popular ones we have are “Aztec King,” “Mission to Mars,” and “Pineapple Express.”

Most mangaves only grow to 0.5-2 feet tall, so they don’t need to be repotted often if grown in a container.

Easy, low-maintenance houseplants.

Enjoy the different varieties—great candidate for adding to a succulent collection.

Colors will change depending on the amount of light they receive. If a pattern or coloration is disappearing, it may not be receiving enough light.

Provide shade from intense afternoon sun during extreme heat.

Most do not have sharp edges or spines like agaves.

Grows much more quickly than agaves.

Mangave is a hybrid from agaves and manfredas, both of which are from the Americas.

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.

Temperature: All mangaves can withstand temperatures down to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, with many tolerating temperatures down to 20 degrees. Some can withstand temperatures down to 5 degrees.

Water: Apply occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.

Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is best in the Palm Springs region.

Pests: Mangaves attract minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially an the bottom of the mangave)

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring.

The easiest way to propagate mangaves is by removing its offsets.

How much does a mangave cost?

At our nursery, mangaves cost $15 for a 1-gallon container, $45 for a 5-gallon container and $120 for a 15-gallon container.

Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Can mangaves be grown outdoors?

If you live in a temperate and dry climate, you can grow all mangaves outdoors. Some varieties will need protection from below frost temperatures. If the mangave is dropping leaves due to cold, keep it in a container and bring indoors.

Does a mangave grow offsets?

Yes, which is great for propagating and sharing.