Plant Type: perennial, hybrid succulent (Agave × Manfreda)
Plant Height: 18–24 inches (flower spike up to 6–8 feet)
Spread: 30–36 inches
Flower Color: greenish-yellow to creamy white
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade
Mangave ‘Aztec King’: A Regal, Fast-Growing Hybrid with Bold Form and Desert Durability
Mangave ‘Aztec King’ is a spectacular, large hybrid succulent that blends the architectural power of agaves with the faster growth and unique patterns of manfredas. A member of the increasingly popular Mangave family, this variety stands out for its deep green leaves overlaid with dramatic burgundy spotting and pronounced ruffling along the edges. Its bold, wide rosette makes it a centerpiece plant for any Arizona landscape—modern, natural, or tropical-desert in style. With its quick growth, graceful arching leaves, and vibrant color contrast, Aztec King lives up to its royal name as one of the most commanding Mangaves available.
Key Features of Mangave ‘Aztec King’
‘Aztec King’ forms a large, symmetrical rosette with thick, sword-like leaves that are slightly flexible and curve outward as they mature. The leaves are dark green to bluish-green and heavily speckled with purple-burgundy spots that intensify in full sun, giving the plant a regal, mosaic-like appearance. The leaf margins are smooth and wavy, occasionally tipped with a small, soft terminal spine. Over time, mature plants may send up a tall bloom stalk bearing clusters of greenish-yellow to creamy white flowers that attract hummingbirds and pollinators. Unlike many agaves, Mangaves tend to be semi-monocarpic—flowering does not always mean death, and many plants will produce offsets that continue the rosette’s lineage.
Growing and Care Tips
Mangave ‘Aztec King’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. In the Phoenix Valley, it performs best in morning and midday sun with light afternoon protection during the peak of summer. It prefers well-draining soil—ideally sandy or decomposed granite—and should never sit in standing water. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between cycles. Overwatering can dull leaf color and promote rot. Fertilizing lightly once or twice a year during the growing season will enhance vigor and spotting. It is cold-tolerant to around 25°F and should be protected from hard frost. Growth is fast for a succulent of its size, and mature specimens can reach full spread in 2–3 years.
Landscaping Uses
‘Aztec King’ is a designer’s dream plant—large, colorful, and textural, it’s ideal as a focal point in both contemporary and natural desert landscapes. It pairs beautifully with silver-blue plants like Agave parryi, golden accents like Echinocactus grusonii, or soft groundcovers such as Blue Chalk Sticks. Its bold coloration also complements gravel gardens, courtyard planters, and entryway beds. When used in containers, it brings dramatic shape and movement to patios or poolside designs. The plant’s quick growth and gentle leaf margins make it a safe, low-maintenance showpiece for both residential and commercial settings.
Summary
Mangave ‘Aztec King’ is the perfect combination of power and beauty—agave structure with manfreda flair. With its deep green leaves, burgundy spotting, and graceful form, it commands attention in any setting while thriving under the harsh sun of Arizona. Fast-growing, drought-tolerant, and endlessly striking, this hybrid is a living example of modern desert elegance.
Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
Mangave ‘Aztec King’ Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun to partial shade; best color develops with at least 6 hours of bright light daily. Provide light afternoon shade in extreme summer heat to prevent leaf stress.
Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix blended with decomposed granite, sand, or pumice. Avoid clay-heavy or organic soils.
Spacing: Allow 3–4 feet between plants or from structures to accommodate full spread and airflow.
Planting Depth: Keep the crown level with the soil surface; do not bury the lower leaves.
Support: Not required; broad leaves and sturdy roots provide natural balance.
Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly once after planting to settle the soil. Then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. During establishment (first 2–3 months), water every 10–14 days depending on heat and drainage.
When is the Plant Established? Mangave ‘Aztec King’ is considered established after 6–9 months, when strong new leaf growth and firm root anchoring are evident.
Watering Once Established: Water deeply every 3–4 weeks during hot, dry periods. Reduce watering in winter to once every 6–8 weeks or less.
Drip Irrigation Setup: Install one low-flow emitter (1 gallon per hour) about 10–12 inches from the base. Run infrequently and only long enough to moisten the root zone deeply.
General Watering Tips: Always ensure soil is completely dry before watering again. Overwatering can cause root or crown rot and fade leaf color. Apply decorative gravel or decomposed granite mulch around the base to reflect light and enhance spotting, keeping it several inches from the rosette for airflow and long-term health.
