Flowers from the Agave family are considered quite common. Their visual characteristics are largely the same. Such plants are tree-like or powerful herbaceous crops. They are distinguished by long, fleshy leaves that form a dense rosette. In this case, the stems are shortened or absent altogether. The crops are also characterized by entire leaf blades with pointed tips.
Flowers from the Agave family: general information
Currently, the Agave family is distinguished as a separate family.It includes 600 species of crops, which are grouped into 20 genera. Many members of this family are herbaceous plants that have a shortened or absent stem. However, this category also includes many tree crops.
These plants are characterized by a fibrous root system. They have linear or lanceolate leaves, which are almost always arranged in a spiral on the stem and often form dense rosettes. In addition, the foliage has a tough and fibrous structure. There are often spines along its edges.
The flowers form inflorescences that are formed on long and branched peduncles. Some varieties are characterized by spike-shaped inflorescences that can reach a height of several meters. Flowers are most often bisexual. They can be tubular or bell-shaped and have white or yellow petals. The ovary can be inferior or superior. After flowering, fruits appear in the form of boxes or berries.
The most decorative representatives of the family include varietal agaves. They are widespread in regions with temperate and hot climates. This category includes such well-known crops as Sansevieria, Dracaena, and Yucca. They are often grown as indoor crops. Also included in this category is the well-known tuberose. It is a Mexican flower that is famous for its delicate and delicate aroma.
Homeland of plants of the Agave family
Representatives of the Agave family are found in tropical and subtropical climates. They grow most often in the Western Hemisphere. The crops are very common in the deserts and semi-deserts of Mexico and Latin America. They are often found in the southern regions of the United States. Certain species of Agave grow in European countries.In particular, they can be seen in the Mediterranean.
Indoor flowers belonging to the Agave family
Most Agave plants are considered wild crops. The most popular house plants in this category include:
- Agave is a small crop that resembles aloe. It has dark green, fleshy leaves that are edged with curved needles. The flower grows in the form of a dense rosette. Leaf blades are often distinguished by a spiral arrangement. Ornamental plants grown at home usually do not exceed 20-30 centimeters. Under natural conditions, the flower reaches several meters. In indoor conditions, agave practically does not bloom. The culture easily withstands drought and prefers a lot of sun.
- Manfreda is a fairly large flower, which is distinguished by strap-shaped leaves. They can be straight or wavy. The flower can have a different color. It is characterized by paniculate inflorescences. The flowers are characterized by long stamens. This plant is a succulent.
- Hosta - this herbaceous crop is distinguished by large glossy leaves that complement long fleshy petioles. A characteristic feature of hosta is its embossed leaves with longitudinal veins. The culture needs to maintain a rest regime. It is important to maintain the temperature at +3-5 degrees. The plant needs diffused light. During the fruiting period, triangular boxes filled with black seeds appear on the bushes.
- Chlorophytum - this herbaceous crop is distinguished by drooping leaves. They are quite long and thin. The flower requires diffused lighting.Chlorophytum is considered one of the representatives of the family that needs frequent watering and additional spraying. During the flowering period, paniculate inflorescences appear on the bushes. They include small, inconspicuous flowers.
- Furcrea – This succulent has no stem and features fleshy, sword-shaped leaves in varying shades of green. Furcrea requires moderate watering and direct sunlight. This flower can withstand long periods of drought. At the same time, it requires a period of rest with lower temperatures. Plant propagation is carried out by division and children.
- Nolina Bocarnea is a tree crop that is distinguished by a strong thick trunk. It has a thickening at the bottom and thin belt-shaped leaves that form a rosette near the trunk.
- Yucca is a tree-like crop, the trunk of which becomes thinner towards the top. This flower is characterized by long sword-shaped leaves. It needs high temperature and enough light.
- Dracaena is a tree or shrub crop that is distinguished by lanceolate leaves and a thin trunk. Dracaena flowers are small but fragrant.
- Sansevieria is a herbaceous plant characterized by creeping roots and dense sword-shaped leaves. They are characterized by a glossy surface and form rosettes. In most cases, the leaves have a variegated color. After flowering, berries appear on the bushes.
Rules for caring for indoor flowers of the Agave family
Plants from this family are considered low maintenance. Under natural conditions, they grow in harsh desert climates. Therefore, these flowers need a minimum amount of moisture and useful elements.
Of course, care rules for different plants may differ significantly. However, there are also universal recommendations. Agave requires dry air and good ventilation of the room. However, they can hardly withstand high humidity.
Agave plants require moderate heat. However, they are able to tolerate a temporary decrease in temperature to +10-12 degrees. In addition, representatives of this family are considered very light-loving. They most often prefer direct sunlight. When there is a lack of light, the leaves of the flowers become pale and droop.
The Agave family is considered very extensive. It includes many interesting ornamental crops. To successfully grow such flowers, you must follow a number of rules.
