Stop doing boring succulents. Do Mangaves instead! Mangave succulents are the cool kids of the plant world. They are a Hybrid of the Agave, well known to South Africans and the Manfreda succulents and have in their genes, the best of both those worlds. We’ve been watching this international trend move across the world and are super excited that they are now here.
![]() the first ever Mangave |
![]() is super chic |
Tough, easy to grow in a combination of colours and patterns that make them totally chic and a must have for the novice and experienced plant collector. The original cross that gave the world "Mangave Pineapple Express" happened as a happy accident as the grower wasn’t planning to create a whole new plant world. After that happened the professionals and passionate horticulturalists got to play and create something truly special. Today there are currently around 30+ different colours and variations available and there are new ones being developed all the time.
Low maintenance and thriving on a bit of neglect and still looking fabulous is their jam. Mangaves are super versatile succulents and will grow almost anywhere from indoors in very bright light or outdoors in a mostly sunny to light shade spot.
![]() have a yellow edge |
![]() a broader leaf |
Grow the Best
Even though they don’t need much to do well, we know everyone likes to grow the best. To do that, plant them in a compost rich soil that drains well. In the garden a clay soil is not ideal and if that’s what you have rather plant them in a large container using just potting soil as the potting mix.
Plant them with loads of compost and a generous feeding of BioRock planting fertiliser. Once established they do not require that much feeding to do well but they can be boosted by regular watering which will encourage them to grow faster.
As a hybrid there are many different variations of colours and size leave to choose from. Some of the broader leafed varieties have leaves that will easily get to 90cm long making them an ideal focal point in a garden design. But there are many that are smaller and well suited to any size garden.
![]() Mangaves |
![]() red new growth |
Mad about Mangaves yet?
We love the way that they have been given unusual names. On trend and so perfect for a new generation of plant parents and young gardeners alike.
With names like Purple People Eater, Snow Leopard and Bad Hair Day its easy to see why they have caught the imagination of the new plant collectors.
Best of all is that if you run out of space you can slow down the growth by cutting back watering which will stop them from getting much bigger. They work well as a cluster planted in one pot or as a focal plant in one large container as a special specimen.
It's time to play with Mangaves grouped as a cluster or planted as a striking focal point or in a collection on the patio. We’re mad about Mangave at Eckards and we know it’s only a question of time till you’ll be too.
![]() Mangave Black Magic |
![]() People Eater |