Agave kewensis, commonly known as Grijalva's agave, is a species of Agave in the family Asparagaceae. It was described by Georg Albano von Jacobi ( Botany) in 1866.
Description
Agave kewensis on average reaches tall, but this may differ on occasion. Leaves are around long with smaller-sized spines. The species produces yellow blooms throughout late summer and early autumn, with some
becoming wide.
Distribution and habitat
Agave kewensis is endemic to
Chiapas and
Oaxaca,
Mexico, where it thrives in arid montane zones. Specifically, the species range resides near the two towns, Sierra de Juárez and Sierra de Nacajuca in Oaxaca, and Sierra del Aguila y San Pablo in Chiapas. Its known populations grow within humid
and
, at average elevations of . It primarily enjoys rocky
and
Limestone. The species is seen growing near abundant
moss cover, which has water droplet buildup when its rains, but also keeps the plant somewhat cool during hot seasons.
Classification and conservation
Agave kewensis was originally assigned under
Agave grijalvensis, but was later assigned to its own
taxon, for the two species of agave were generally different. Some
botanists still dispute the classification of this species, for they believe it is a misclassification and is a synonym of
Agave grijalvensis.
Agave kewensis is currently listed as "Endangered" by the IUCN Red List, for the species range is only , with threats of deforestation, , and overexploitation from humans becoming more serious by the year. The endemicity and rarity of the species earns the agave plant a title for one of Mexico's most endangered plants.
Uses
Agave kewensis is commonly used as an
ornamental plant for
, private collections, and
Botanical garden, but is being overcollected from its natural habitat in the wild, hence creating a population decline. Other uses may include: brush for fires,
Medicine, and used for
Mexican cuisine (although the species
and other plant matter can be
Toxicity in great amounts).
