Agave applanata 'Cream Spike'
Family: Asparagaceae, formerly Agavaceae​
​Common Name: cream spike
Origin: Agave applanata is endemic to Veracruz and Puebla, Mexico, but was spread to the north by humans in the pre-historic era. The cultivar 'Cream Spike' is nursery born, tracing its appearance in cultivation to Nature’s Curiosity Shop, which received the species from Japan in the 1980’s. However, the exact origin of cream spike is unknown.
Description: Agave applanata ‘Cream Spike’ is a dwarf variegation of Agave applanata, possessing glaucous leaves with cream colored edges. Dwarf specimens are low growing and flat, becoming rosette-shaped and broadened as the plant matures. Additionally, each leaf is tipped with a flexible spine, which firms with age, and the margins may seasonally flush red. When flowering, a stalk up to 3m is produced, bearing small red to orange flowers.
  • Interesting Features:
    • Blooming is rare in cultivation, with plants only flowering after they have reached 20 years of age or older.
    • Additionally, Agave applanata ‘Cream Spike’ is monocarpic, and will die after flowering.
  • Uses: Although no specific ethnobotanical uses have been recorded, cream spike is popular in cultivation as a container plant and centerpiece in xeriscape gardens. When blooming, the species can attract several pollinators, including moths, butterflies, and bats.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Moderate
    • During the growing season provide moderate water, irrigating thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. In winter, allow a resting period where watering is reduced to once every 1-2 months. Do not mist, as this can lead to rot.
  • Soil: Cultivate Agave applanata ‘Cream Spike’ in sandy or gravelly soil that is porous and well-draining. While poor soil is tolerated, pH should be maintained between 6.1 and 7.8.
  • Lighting: Site in a location that receives full sun. However, this species also tolerates partial shade, which should be provided in hotter climates to prevent foliage from becoming scorched.
  • Propagation: Cream spike primarily propagates through offsets, which are produced readily from young plants. Remove the pups in spring or summer and allow to dry before planting directly into compost.
    • Other methods of propagation include through stem cuttings, bulbils, and seed, although the latter is rare in cultivation.
    • After planting, irrigate from below and provide a cover to retain moisture for developing agave.
  • Cold Tolerance: 25°F, USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11.
  • Special Accommodations: While virtually disease free, care should be taken to avoid damage by slugs, snails, rot, and Cochineal scale infestations. Additionally, protect from rodents, as this species can easily be ravaged overnight.
    • Always wear gloves when handling, to protect from damage by the sharp thorns and acute contact dermatitis from wounded plants.

Sources:
  1. ​Llifle Encyclopedia of Succulents Agave applanata ‘Cream spike’
  2. Llifle Encyclopedia of Succulents Agave applanata
  3. San Marcos Growers
  4. Gardenia
  5. Dave's Garden
  6. Garden