Agave Variety Catalog — Comparing Titanota, Horrida, Potatorum, Geminiflora, and More

The World of Agave Species

The Agave genus is a succulent plant native to North and Central America, with over 200 species and countless varieties, subspecies, and hybrids worldwide. Due to the Agave boom in Japan, many varieties are now available in the domestic market.

Leaf color, shape, spine form, size, and cultivation difficulty vary greatly depending on the species. By understanding the characteristics of each species before purchase, you can choose an Agave that suits your environment and goals.

Major Species Catalog

Titanota Group (Agave titanota)

The most popular representative Agave. Characterized by white to gray leaves with regularly arranged serrated edges (saw-like teeth).

• FO-076 (True Titanota): Popular for its strong white tone, uniform serrated edges, and compact size. The most widely distributed among breeders
• Black and Blue: Specimen with more blue-tinged leaves and black spines. Rare and expensive
• White Ice: Selected specimen with extremely strong white coloration
• Size: Typically 30–60 cm in diameter
• Difficulty Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Price Range: ¥3,000 to tens of thousands (selected specimens exceed ¥100,000)

Horrida Group (Agave horrida)

A compact Agave native to Mexico. Characterized by thin, upright leaves and sharp spines, equally popular as Titanota.

• Leaf color ranges from green to gray-green
• Terminal spines are long and sharp
• Compact, typically 20–50 cm in diameter
• Difficulty Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Price Range: ¥2,000 and up

Potatorum Group (Agave potatorum)

Characterized by rounded leaves and complex serrated edges. Popular as a "small-sized" Agave category.

• Known by the distribution name "Kissho-kan"
• Short, broad leaves that form a compact overall shape
• Prone to etiolation (stretching) with insufficient light, requiring ample sunlight
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Price Range: ¥1,500 and up

Geminiflora (Agave geminiflora)

Unique form with numerous thin, thread-like leaves. Spherical and fluffy appearance creates visual impact.

• Leaves are very thin with sharp tips
• Relatively shade-tolerant and easy to grow indoors
• Difficult to propagate due to infrequent pup production
• Difficulty Level: Intermediate
• Price Range: ¥2,000 and up

Americana (Agave americana) / Large Varieties

Also called Chaboagabe. A large variety with 20–30 cm spines at the leaf tips. Used as a symbol plant in gardens and public spaces.

• Can grow to over 200 cm in diameter at maximum
• High cold and drought tolerance, hardy and beginner-friendly
• Price Range: ¥1,000 and up (young plants are inexpensive)

Recommended Species for Beginners

For Ease of Care: Americana, Potatorum, Titanota group (standard varieties)

For Aesthetics (Compact): Titanota FO-076, Horrida

For Rarity and Uniqueness: Black and Blue, Geminiflora

For Garden Planting / Symbol Tree: Americana, Sisalana

Agave prices vary greatly by species, so starting with inexpensive, widely available varieties to gain cultivation experience is a wise approach to minimize failures.