Mangave 'Pineapple Express'

A new and exciting development in succulent breeding that is taking the gardening world by storm.

The 'Pineapple Express' is a fascinating cross between the Manfreda and the Agave, Mangaves are becoming increasingly popular as the interest in Xeric landscaping grows - the process of gardening that reduces or eliminates the need for supplemental moisture from watering.

Manfredas have rosettes of coloured leaves branching from a very short stem, often with creamy, tubular flowers at the end of a long stalk. Agaves on the other hand are well known for their strong succulent leaves that form large rosettes. These interesting hybrids combine the best features of both types: the better growth rate and the interesting patterns and colours of Manfreda, and the habit and refinement of Agave.

Varieties can be spotted, blotched or plain green in various shades and with an interesting texture, they can be a bit pointy, but not as prickly as a cactus. Some of the varieties have interesting leaf shape too, from slim and long to short and broad and wavy or straight too.

The 'Pineapple Express' is a beautifully spotted Mangave with light green leaves that during the summer months come to life when the colours are heighten thanks to the sun.

Compact in growth and visually stunning, Mangaves make a perfect patio plant, sitting happily in a pot through the summer on your decking or balcony, they will then make a perfect houseplant through the winter in a bright room.

All varieties should be watered only sparingly as they are ideally suited to dessert, arid conditions and are lovers of warm temperatures - they make an ideal specimen for a greenhouse or as a houseplant for bright rooms - indeed anything less than 65°F will result in the plant becoming dormant.

Supplied as an established plant in a 19cm pot, ready to plant.