Mangave 'Bad Hair Day'

Where to Plant:

This is a fun and architectural succulent, forming a dense rosette of very narrow, arching green leaves that look like a messy head of hair. In strong sun, the leaves become dotted with reddish speckles. In the UK, it is essential to grow this plant in a container. Choose a spot on a sunny patio, in a gravel garden, or a bright conservatory where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to develop its best colour and form. It is not frost-hardy and must be protected during winter.

How to Plant:

Plant in spring or summer using a very well-drained compost mix. A mixture of a loam-based compost with at least one-third horticultural grit or perlite is ideal. Choose a terracotta pot, which helps the compost to dry out, and ensure it has large drainage holes. Pot the mangave so that the crown of the plant sits slightly proud of the compost surface, and top-dress with a layer of grit or gravel. This helps to keep the base of the plant dry and prevents rot. Water it in well once after potting.

Aftercare:

During the summer growing season, water the plant thoroughly whenever the compost has completely dried out. It is better to underwater than to overwater. In autumn, reduce watering significantly. The most important part of its care is winter protection. Before the first frosts, move the pot to a frost-free, dry, and bright location such as a conservatory, cold greenhouse, or a very well-lit shed. Keep the plant almost completely dry throughout the winter until the spring.