Pot Size: 3.5"
Accepted Scientific Name:
×Mangave ‘Bloodspot’
Origin and Habitat:
×Mangave ‘Bloodspot’ is a hybrid succulent resulting from a cross between Agave and Manfreda, both native to the arid and semi-arid regions of North America, particularly Mexico and the southwestern United States. While this cultivar does not exist in the wild, it inherits drought tolerance and sun resistance from its parent species. The hybrid was bred for ornamental use, valued for its compact size and striking leaf markings. Like its desert-native parents, it thrives in well-draining soil and bright light, making it highly adaptable to xeric garden settings and container culture.
Description:
×Mangave ‘Bloodspot’ is a compact rosette-forming succulent that reaches 8–12 inches tall and 12–16 inches wide. It has rigid, lance-shaped leaves with a deep blue-green base, heavily speckled with maroon-red spots that intensify in bright light. The leaf margins feature small, soft teeth and end in a sharp terminal spine, contributing to its spiky appearance. In maturity, it may produce a tall flower spike with tubular, greenish-yellow blooms. Its symmetrical shape and dramatic foliage coloring make it a popular choice for modern desert landscapes and mixed succulent arrangements.
Cultivation:
Zone: Suitable for USDA zones 8 to 11.
Temperature: Ideal range is 10°C to 32°C; can tolerate brief dips to -6°C if dry.
Growth Rate: Moderate, faster than most Agaves due to Manfreda lineage.
Soil: Use a well-draining mix amended with pumice to prevent rot.
Watering: Allow soil to dry out completely between deep waterings. Avoid wetting the crown.
Fertilizing: Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer.
Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Brighter light enhances red spotting.
Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-resistant but may occasionally suffer from aphids or root rot in overly moist conditions.
Propagation:
Best propagated through offsets, which can be separated once they have several roots. Allow offsets to dry before planting in pumice-rich soil. Can also be grown from seed with patience.