Pulque agave
Agave salmiana

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

A large succulent plant. It produces setts at the side. The leaves are strong and grey-green. They curve upwards. They can be 0.9-2 m long. There are teeth along the edge. They have a strong keel at the ends.

There are about 250 Agave species. The Agavaceae are mostly in the tropics and subtropics.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in desert areas. It can grow in arid places. It grows in open areas on sand or clay soils up to 1,800 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Central America, Indonesia, Mexico (country/location of origin), North America, SE Asia

How it is used for food

Heart or centre used for fermented drinks and fresh drinks. The sap is eaten. The young flower stalks are chewed.

It is a cultivated food plant.

Edible parts

Heart - drink, sap, flowers

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds or suckers.

Its other names

Local names

Agave raksasa, Pulqueagave, Maguey de pulque, Maguey manso, Maguey ceniso, Tame maguey

Synonyms

Agave atrovirens auct.; Agave mitriformis Jacobi;