A beautiful, rare and useful Agave
Agave gypsophila
Family: Asparagaceae
Conservation status: Critically Endangered
Found only in the Chihuahuan Desert in the Mexican state of Guerrero, this succulent Agave species is known for its wavy, rosette-forming, blue-green leaves.
Despite their slow growth rate, these spikey, white-toothed leaves can grow to three feet long. Plants bloom most frequently in summer, bearing yellow flowers atop a tall stalk.
Its species name, gypsophila, means “gypsum-loving” – a reference to the gypsum soils where it is endemic – and gives it its common names, gypsum agave or gypsum century plant.
While recognized mostly for its ornamental value, indigenous peoples have used Agave gypsophila’s sap to treat various injuries such as cuts and burns. Leaves have also been used to make rope, baskets, and other textiles.