The mountain agave, Agave montana, is a beautiful and architectural plant, forming a huge solitary rosette of densely packed, spined, deep-green leaves with a white powdery patina. Native to the mountainous regions of Mexico, it's exposed to cool moist cloud and more of a temperate climate than other agaves are used to. It's therefore better suited to the British climate than some of its less hardy cousins, and has even been known to survive harsh British winters outside, without any protection.
For best results grow Agave montana in well-drained soil in full sun, and water sparingly. Despite being hardier than most agaves (down to -10°C), it is a good idea to give it protection in winter. Bring plants indoors in autumn or protect with fleece.
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Agave ‘Montana’ and wildlife
Agave ‘Montana’ has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
