Product Description
Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix (72)ct Flat
Common Name: Mangave
The MAD ABOUT YOU™ Mix includes:
'Aztec King'
'Falling Waters'
'Moonglow'
'Red Wing'
'Silver Fox'
'Snow Leopard'
Mangave is a relatively new phenomenon, an intergeneric cross of Manfreda x Agave. These rare hybrids combine the best of both worlds: the better growth rate and the interesting patterns of Manfreda, and the habit and refinement of Agave. We are very excited (shall we say mad?) about our new hybrids from Walters Gardens hybridizing.
Mangave is a tender perennial or "temperennial" succulent plant that grows best in full sun. Plant in well-drained, dry to average soil in containers just slightly wider than the width of the rosette or plant directly in the ground. In summer when the plants are actively growing, they appreciate a bit of supplemental watering and half-strength fertilizer. They should be grown dry in winter. Mangave is a slower grower, so it will not quickly overtake the space it is allotted in the landscape.
Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)
Low Water Needs
Poor to Average Soil Quality
Deer and Rabbit Resistant
Growth Rate: Slow
Container, Drought Tolerant, Attractive Foliage, Small, Specimen, Focal Point, Native to North America
A Captivating Succulent for Your Garden
Mangave plants have become increasingly popular among gardening enthusiasts, captivating with their unique blend of striking foliage, drought tolerance, and low-maintenance care. This article delves into the captivating world of Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix, exploring its characteristics, cultivation needs, and potential uses in your garden.
Mangave is a relatively new type of succulent, first introduced by plant breeders at Walters Gardens. It is an intergeneric cross between Manfreda and Agave plants, resulting in a stunning succulent that boasts captivating foliage, a compact growth habit, and remarkable adaptability to various garden settings. This innovative hybrid inherits the best features of both parent plants: the impressive growth rate and intricate patterns of Manfreda, and the structural form and resilience of Agave. One of the key advantages of Mangave is its faster growth rate compared to Agave, making it a quicker and more rewarding choice for gardeners.
Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix: An Enchanting Blend The Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix is a curated collection of six exceptional Mangave varieties, each with its own distinct charm and allure. This mix, part of the MAD ABOUT YOU™ collection from Walters Gardens, offers a diverse range of colors, textures, and forms to enhance your garden. These plants typically reach a height of 6-10 inches with a spread of 14-20 inches. The six varieties included in this mix are:
- 'Aztec King': Imagine dramatic, near-black leaves with long, flat, lance-shaped foliage that creates a bold statement in any garden. This is the 'Aztec King', a variety that commands attention with its striking presence.
- 'Falling Waters': Picture thick, blue-green leaves cascading down the plant like a tranquil waterfall, bringing a sense of soothing movement to your garden. This is the essence of 'Falling Waters', a Mangave that evokes a sense of serenity.
- 'Moonglow': This variety lives up to its name with silvery blue-green leaves that shimmer with an ethereal glow. Delicate, faint spots, more pronounced in sunlight, add to its captivating allure.
- 'Red Wing': Prepare to be amazed by a vibrant symphony of colors! 'Red Wing' is a showstopper with a captivating blend of red, purple, and green, guaranteed to turn heads and spark conversations in any garden.
- 'Silver Fox': This variety stands out with its almost luminescent, silvery-white appearance. A thick, waxy coating over light green leaves creates a glowing effect that adds a touch of magic to any setting.
- 'Snow Leopard': Envision thin, creamy white margins delicately adorned with brilliant cherry red spots, like a work of art painted on succulent leaves. This is 'Snow Leopard', a Mangave that exudes elegance and sophistication.
Caring for Your Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix Mangave plants are known for their low-maintenance nature and resilience, making them an excellent choice for both novice and experienced gardeners. Here are some essential care tips to ensure your Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix thrives in your garden:
- Sunlight and Hardiness Mangave plants thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and color development. However, they can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates where intense afternoon sun may cause leaf burn. If you notice your Mangave losing its vibrant colors or developing spots, it may be a sign that it needs more sunlight.
- These succulents prefer warm climates and should be protected from frost. They are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. In cooler regions, it is best to grow Mangaves in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter months to protect them from freezing temperatures.
- Soil Requirements Well-draining soil is crucial for Mangave plants. They prefer a gritty, cactus or succulent mix that allows excess water to drain easily. If planting in the ground, amend the soil with sand, perlite, pumice, or lava rock to improve drainage.
- Watering Needs While Mangave plants are drought-tolerant, they still need regular watering, especially when young and establishing their root systems. Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, allowing excess water to drain completely. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other problems. In winter, reduce watering as the plant enters dormancy.
- Fertilizer Application Mangave plants are not heavy feeders and can thrive in nutrient-poor soil. However, you can provide a diluted, balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to leggy growth and weaken the plant's natural resilience.
- Pests and Diseases / Benefits Mangave plants are generally pest-resistant. However, keep an eye out for common pests like mealybugs or scale insects. If you notice any infestations, treat them promptly with appropriate insecticides or by manually removing the pests. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems for Mangave plants, as it can lead to root rot. Ensure proper drainage and avoid letting the soil stay consistently wet.
- A significant advantage for gardeners is that Mangave plants are generally resistant to deer and rabbits. This makes them a great choice for gardens where these animals might be a concern.
- Propagating Your Mangave Mangaves can be easily propagated by separating the "pups" that emerge from the base of the plant. Gently pull these pups off and replant them in well-draining soil. This allows you to expand your Mangave collection or share these captivating succulents with friends and fellow gardening enthusiasts.
Uses in Your Garden Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix offers endless possibilities for adding a touch of exotic beauty and architectural interest to your garden. Here are some inspiring ideas:
- Container Gardens: Mangave's compact size and striking foliage make them ideal for container plantings. Use a single variety as a focal point on a patio or balcony or combine different varieties in a larger pot for a stunning display. You can even bring them indoors as eye-catching specimens to brighten up your living space.
- Rock Gardens: The drought tolerance and unique textures of Mangave make them a perfect fit for rock gardens. Combine them with other drought-tolerant plants like sedums, yuccas, and ornamental grasses. Incorporate rocks of varying sizes and colors to create a low-maintenance and visually appealing landscape that mimics a natural desert environment.
- Succulent Gardens: Create a stunning succulent garden by combining Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix with other succulents and cacti. Their diverse colors and forms will add depth and interest to your succulent collection. Consider incorporating different textures and heights by including echeverias, aloes, and haworthias.
- Xeriscaping: Mangave's low water requirements make them an excellent choice for xeriscaping, a landscaping technique that focuses on water conservation. Use them in dry areas of your garden to create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. Group them with other drought-tolerant plants and consider using mulch to further reduce water evaporation.
Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix is a captivating collection of succulents that brings a touch of the exotic to any garden. With their striking foliage, low-maintenance care, and versatility, these plants are sure to become a favorite among gardening enthusiasts. Their unique forms and textures add visual interest, while their drought tolerance makes them a sustainable choice for water-wise gardens. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting, Mangave MAD IN LOVE Mix offers a unique opportunity to add beauty, texture, and resilience to your outdoor space. Explore the world of Mangave and discover the captivating allure of these remarkable succulents!
Other Details
The most important part of the plant is its root system. Healthy roots are the foundation of a healthy, vibrant plant. The type of plug container used is based on the specific needs of the plants. Perennials offered as bare root traditionally perform better when planted as bare root.Planted in a specialized mix, potted plants have well established root systems. Top growth stage will vary depending on the current life cycle and time of year when shipped. In Winter and early Spring dormant plants may be shipped. Dormant plants may be planted right away, even before the last frost date.
Most bare root varieties are field grown for at least one season, though Hemerocallis and Hosta are grown for two seasons. The bulk of the soil is removed during the harvesting process and the tops of most varieties are trimmed back to the crown. They are graded, packed in shredded aspen or sphagnum moss and stored in freezers until ready to be shipped.
See our Container Sizes and Bare Root Perennials pages for more information.
Plant information and care is provided in the Overview section, Plant Genus Page and general information is provided in the Planting Care & Guides. Additional questions can be asked on each Plant page.
Plant Spacing: Using the maximum mature spread or width of a plant to guide spacing, ensures space to grow to full size. To fill an area sooner, plant them closer together. Just remember, future thinning or transplanting may be needed.
Water: Keep a close eye on newly planted perennials, especially throughout the first growing year. Most early plant loss is due to too much or too little water!
