• Name (s): Maguey Papalote, Dwarf Cowhorn

• Scientific name: Agave cupreata

•  Attractive feature: The solitary succulent plant is essential to Mexico’s cultural consumption and production of mezcal. Its traditional harvest is localized in Guerrero and Michoacan state where it has been practiced for centuries. It presents 7m inflorescence with yellow flowers that resemble a sprouting pine tree and bears ecological importance in preventing soil erosion and conserving humidity.

• Kingdom: Plantae

• ●  Phylum (Division): Angiosperms (Magnoliophyta)

• ●  Class: Monocots (Liliopsida)

• ●  Order: Asparagales

• ●  Family: Asparagaceae

• ●  Genus: Agave

• ●  Species: Agave cupreata

The Dwarf Cowhorn plant is native to Guerrero and Michoacán in Mexico where the terrain is mountainous. This agave thrives in temperatures ranging from warm to hot, usually between 20°C with a tolerance to fluctuation. Its habitat has seasonal low to moderate rainfall with 24-47 inches per year necessary for the plant's growth cycle. Its soil is usually rocky, sandy, or loamy and is preferably well-drained to avoid root rot and water clogging. Its altitude ranges between 1000 to 2000 ft above sea level in sloped terrain where drainage is most prevalent. Within its habitat, drought-resistant flora and xerophytic plants are common including cacti, small trees, succulents, shrubs, and mesquite trees. Small mammals, rodents, and insects adapted to it. The production of agave is a che dry region that can also be found in cultural and economic practices with over 200 years of tradition.

Agave is not currently listed as endangered or threatened due to its widespread range where they’re commonly found. Due to its importance in local and commercial production of mescal, possible threats could exist due to overharvesting and habitat destruction due to climate change. Protection measures to ensure their success and survival include sustainable harvest and habitat loss prevention through public education efforts and species preservation programs. Economically, Agave is used for the commercial production of mescal and poses an ornamental value as a resistant and low-maintenance house and garden plant. Agave has been a significant symbol in pre-Colombian and indigenous Mexican culture, where both the cultivation and harvest of mescal have become a traditional practice of great national pride. In Green Roofs, agaves are attractive due to their drought tolerance, biodiversity, and physical appearance.

Agave ́s have multiple evolutionary adaptations that have enabled its survival in its hostile habitat. Due to its CAM Photosynthesis abilities, its stomata remain closed during the day and open at night to minimize water loss. Its waxy cuticle on leaves reduces water evaporation, also providing a safe barrier against insects and bacteria. Its fibrous root system allows for maximum absorption of water in rocky ground. Finally, the agave plants have spines that deter herbivores from feeding on their leaves or stems. Such traits were selected naturally over thousands of generations, allowing the agave plant to become adaptable to its environment. Agave plants successfully has also undergone speciation where populations of such have become isolated and adaptable to specific conditions. Its closest relatives are Agave tequilana and Agave americana. According to DNA analysis, Agaves diverged from their closest relative 10 million years ago. It is part of the Asparagaceae family.