The Development of Agave

Rhizomes

• The development of the agave begins either with a seed or with underground stem extensions called rhizomes that form new plants. Small buds growing on the rhizome reach the surface as offsets.

Stem

• As the agave grows, the small stem is hidden beneath a massive spiral of leaves. It is the base on which the agave forms.

Roots

• The wide-spreading roots are fibrous but shallow. They are adapted to low and erratic rainfall.

Leaves

• The rigid, fibrous leaves have prominent sharp teeth and a very pointed terminal spine. All the water and energy-storage capacity of the plant is in the leaves.

Flowers

• Fragrant flowers bloom on a tall stalk that rises from the center of the plant. Once the bloom cycle is complete, the plant dies.

Fruit

• The fruit is a woody capsule containing three chambers. Inside each chamber are many flat, black seeds that can be used for reproduction.