scientific name: Agave lophantha 'Quadricolor'

agave quadricolor

Also known as: Quadricolor Century Plant, Four-Color Agave, Thorn-Crested Century Plant

Native to the mountains of northeastern Mexico, this compact succulent earns its name honestly — 'Quadricolor' literally means "four-colored," and every leaf proves it. Dark green centers, pale green midstripes, creamy yellow edges, and deep red margins come together in one perfectly symmetrical rosette that looks almost too good to be real. Small enough for containers yet bold enough to anchor a garden bed, it's one of the most visually striking agaves you can get.

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plant tips

  • water

    Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Extremely drought tolerant once established.

  • light

    Full sun to partial shade. More direct sunlight brings out the most vivid four-color contrast in the leaves.

  • size

    Grows up to 18 in. tall and 2 ft. wide — perfectly sized for containers, borders, and rock gardens.

care

Plant in sandy, well-drained soil in a sunny spot and water regularly until established. Once mature, this tough succulent needs no pruning or fertilizing to look its best. Over time it produces small offshoots called "pups" at its base that can be removed to grow new plants or left to form a striking cluster. Note that its leaf tips and edges are sharp — plant away from high foot traffic areas.

  • container eye-catching

    Its compact size and vivid coloring make it one of the best agaves for pots. Style it on a patio, balcony, or entryway for an instant focal point that thrives in the sun with almost no upkeep.

  • terrace floor statement

    Place Agave Quadricolor in a large floor pot on your apartment terrace for a bold, architectural accent that commands attention. Its striking four-color rosette adds year-round texture to any space.

  • terrace tabletop accent

    Its compact size makes Agave Quadricolor a perfect tabletop companion for any apartment terrace. Set it on an outdoor table or surface and let its vivid four-toned leaves do all the talking.

  • garden standout

    Group Agave Quadricolor with gravel, boulders, and other succulents for a bold, low-water landscape that showcases its stunning four-color leaves year-round.