Agave potatorum ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata – Rare Variegated Agave for Collectors
Agave ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata, a highly sought-after Japanese cultivar of Agave potatorum, is a compact, living sculpture. Its tight rosette of smooth, spoon-shaped leaves is marked by a bold cream stripe against grey-green tones, framed with subtle spines. Seasonal blushes of pink or red add extra drama. Perfect for small spaces, bonsai-style dishes, or as a standout piece in any indoor succulent setup.
Quick Highlights
- Size: Compact rosette, 5–7 cm tall, 9–12 cm wide
- Growth: Slow-growing, offsets after maturity
- Light: Bright light to full sun keeps variegation crisp
- Temperature: 18–28 °C ideal; tolerates down to –3 °C when dry
- Toxicity: Sap may irritate skin; not pet-safe
What Makes Agave ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Stand Out
- Rare Japanese Cultivar: Variegation with strong visual contrast
- Perfect for Collectors: Ideal size for limited spaces and bonsai bowls
- Architectural Beauty: Symmetrical rosette with subtle seasonal blush
- Drought Tolerant: Thrives in low-water conditions
Origin and Growth Habits
This plant descends from Agave isthmensis, native to southern Mexico’s Isthmus of Tehuantepec, where rocky, semi-arid slopes shape its resilience. The cultivar name ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ translates to “Royal Thunder God” in Japanese, reflecting its bold form. Indoors, it remains compact, rarely exceeding 12 cm, and offsets slowly over time. Like all agaves, it is monocarpic — flowering only once after many years, then dying, but leaving offsets to continue the lineage.
Indoor Care Guide for Agave ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata
- Placement: Bright spot or full sun; south-facing windows are ideal
- Light: High intensity preserves tight rosette and crisp variegation
- Watering: Let soil dry out completely before watering; reduce in winter
- Humidity: Prefers dry air; never mist the leaves
- Temperature: Optimal at 18–28 °C; tolerates down to –3 °C if dry
- Soil: Gritty cactus mix with pumice or lava rock for drainage
- Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when offsets crowd the pot
- Fertilizer: Diluted cactus fertilizer monthly during growth
- Propagation: Separate pups after they root; allow callusing first
- Hydroponics: Possible in mineral substrates for advanced growers
Common Problems and Solutions
- Root Rot: From overwatering — use a gritty mix and water sparingly
- Mealybugs and Scale: Remove manually; treat with insecticidal soap
- Leaf Marks: Avoid water in the rosette to prevent spots
Interesting Details and Etymology
Agave: From Greek “agauos,” meaning noble. potatorum: Latin for “of drinkers,” referencing mezcal production. First described by Alfredo Dugès in 1881; the variegated cultivar introduced later in Japan.
FAQs about Agave ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata
- How long does it live? Often a decade or more before flowering.
- Can I grow it outdoors? Yes, in mild summers; protect from frost.
- Does it need deep pots? No, shallow containers suit its compact roots.
- Is it pet-safe? No, its sap can irritate skin and is toxic if ingested.
- Does it need pruning? Only remove dry leaves with gloves.
Looking to add a rare, variegated agave to your collection? Order Agave ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata now and make it the centerpiece of your indoor succulent display.
Agave potatorum ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata
Agave potatorum ‘Ouhi-Raijin’ Variegata is approximately 15 cm tall and comes in an ⌀ 8 cm pot.
