Mangave is a striking hybrid between Agave and Manfreda, combining the architectural habit of the former with the faster growth and intriguing leaf patterns of the latter. These drought-tolerant succulents thrive in full sun and free-draining soil, making them ideal for gravel gardens, containers, and sheltered spots with a modern or Mediterranean feel. Most are half-hardy, so are best suited to container culture in the UK, where they can be moved under cover in colder months. With their bold rosettes and dramatic markings, Mangave offer year-round interest and make a standout feature in any sunny space.

Mangave is low maintenance in the right conditions. It will flourish in a sunny, sheltered spot with well drained, stoney or sandy soil. In areas with wet or cold winters or heavy soil, it will be happiest in a pot which can be moved to the greenhouse or indoors for winter.

How to plant

— Mangave should be planted within a week of delivery if possible. Mangave is supplied as a 9cm root ball plant, like a potted plant with soil held together by the roots. It will need a light watering on arrival and to be in a space with plenty of light.

— Root ball plants can in some cases be planted directly into a clear space in borders. This depends on soil type, moisture levels, temperatures and what else is growing in the space. Mangave prefers a light, free-draining and quite dry soil, however this might be challenging for them to settle into at a young age. You should avoid planting directly into a space which is close to more established plants which could over-crowd them during the growing season.

— Due to its preference for dry, poor soil, it is recommended to pot up Mangave on arrival into 15-20cm pots with either cactus and succulent compost or a multi-purpose compost with added horticultural grit to improve drainage. Grow-on in a sheltered, sunny part of the garden or greenhouse until they are a little more established before transplanting into the ground. They can be transplanted into a well-suited growing space once they are larger and have a stronger root system. If hard frosts are likely over winter, it is best to keep them in pots in a greenhouse over winter and wait until late spring to transplant them. They are ready to transplant when they come out of their pots with the compost held intact by the roots.

— Whether potting or planting directly into a border, plant so that the root system/root ball is fully submerged in the soil, leaving the top growth exposed above the soil surface. If planting root ball plants directly into a border, choose a sunny or partially shaded position ideally with light soil and space the plants 20-30cm apart if planting in groups. Add a generous amount of multipurpose compost to each planting hole to help the new roots grow. Ensure the area is not exposed to hard frosts or temperatures below around -2C over winter.

— Water-in after planting. Do not over-water succulents like Mangave - they can quickly become mouldy and rot away if the soil is consistently moist. If the soil feels damp, it will not need additional watering. However you should check moisture levels during the first year while the plant is settling in and water when the soil feels dry below around 5cm from the surface. Once established, they are very drought tolerant and rarely need watering at all. Allow the soil to dry out between each watering. Over-watering will cause the plant to rot. Water only when necessary and allow all excess water to drain away.

Aftercare:

— Mangave can be slow to establish, and can take 2-3 years to develop a full rosette. It may not produce a flower in the first year but will develop thick, fleshy leaves with striking patterns.

— New growth emerges in spring and summer, with flowering typically occurring in late summer or autumn.

— After flowering, remove spent flower stalks to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage healthy foliage growth.

— Mangave remains evergreen year-round. Foliage should need little maintenance if the plant is keep well hydrated, with good drainage, but you can damaged or dead leaves as needed to maintain a neat appearance.

— Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot, especially during winter. Avoid overwatering; allow the soil to dry out between waterings.