Discover the captivating Agave potatorum 'Verschaffeltii', commonly known as the butterfly agave, a striking, compact succulent that adds a touch of elegance to any space. With its broad, blue-gray leaves forming a neat rosette reminiscent of an artichoke, this plant is a true visual delight. Each leaf is adorned with sharp, cinnamon-brown spines, creating a beautiful contrast against the fleshy, silver-green foliage. Typically, the butterfly agave reaches a mature size of 45 to 60 centimeters in both height and width. Its slow-growing nature sometimes results in small offsets, adding to its charm.
Thriving in full sun to very light conditions, Agave potatorum 'Verschaffeltii' requires minimal water during summer, ensuring the soil dries out completely between waterings, while winter care involves keeping it nearly dry. It flourishes in well-draining soil, ideally a mix of cactus soil with coarse sand or perlite. This striking agave is moderately hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as 26.6 °F. For optimal growth, it’s best to overwinter this beauty in a frost-free environment, whether in a pot or greenhouse.