Agave victoriae-reginae
Synonyms: Agave ferdinandi-regis, Agave nickelsiae
Family: Asparagaceae, formerly Agavaceae​
​Common Name: king of agaves, king of the agaves, Queen Victoria agave
Origin: Agave victoriae-reginae originates from the Sierra Madre Oriental Mountains in the state of Coahuila, and south of Nuevo Leon, in northeastern Mexico. It is found in lower elevation slopes and near vertical cliffs of desert canyons, in calcareous soils. While endangered in its natural habitat, the species is abundant in cultivation.
Description: The Queen Victoria agave is a perennial succulent characterized by olive-green, white-edged leaves, and a black central spine. The close-growing, blade-like leaves will develop into a rosette capable of reaching up to 18 inches in diameter, either developing a solitary or clumping form. In summer, plants may grow a curved green spike up to 4 meters tall, bearing numerous yellow flowers that are flushed purple-red.
  • Interesting Features:
    • A. victoriae-reginae will only flower after 20-30 years of growth, and will die immediately after blooming, as agave are monocarpic.
    • A. ferdinandi-regis is officially synonymous to A. victoriae-reginae, despite some sources considering the former to possess a more open and larger rosette with fewer, more narrow leaves; less bud imprinting; and darker edges than the latter.
    • This specimen is A. ferdinandi-regis, however, the accepted species name remains A. victoriae-reginae.
  • Uses: The Queen Victoria agave has been used for fiber, food, and to produce an alcoholic beverage by Indigenous populations within its natural habitat. Additional uses include in the production of clothing, ropes, and food - with flowering stems, flowers, and all plant parts boiled, cooked, or consumed raw.
    • The Queen Victoria agave is also very popular in cultivation, and is widely valued in landscaping for its unique appearance.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Moderate
    • Water well during summer and spring, allowing soil to almost completely dry in between waterings.
    • In winter keep as dry as possible, especially when soil is moist.
    • Additionally, ensure that specimens never remain in standing water, to prevent root rot.
  • Soil: Plant A. victoriae-reginae in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.1 and 7.8.
  • Lighting: Provide full sun and partial shade when necessary, especially during the hottest summer months.
  • Propagation: The Queen Victoria agave reproduces through seeds and suckers, which develop basally in spring. Simply remove the offsets and plant in moist soil, providing light and misting occasionally until seedlings form.
  • Cold Tolerance: 20°F, USDA Hardiness zones 9a to 11.
  • Special Accommodations: Good ventilation and drainage are essential in order for A. victoriae-reginae to survive.
    • Although this species can tolerate light frost, it should be cultivated in pots and brought indoors during the colder winter months.
    • Lastly, the Queen Victoria agave is prone to mealybugs and scale, and should be inspected carefully or quarantined before introducing to a greenhouse or home.

Sources:
  1. Gardenia
  2. San Marcos Growers
  3. Llifle Encyclopedia of Succulents
  4. University of Arizona Arboretum
  5. Dave’s Garden