Agave

Other names: American aloe, Agave Americana, Chupalla, Maguey, Pita

Agave, also known as American aloe, Agave americana, Chupalla, Maguey or Pita, is a plant native to the southwestern regions of North America. It is an unmistakable tropical plant characterised by its large rosettes of leaves with sharp spikes. Its leaves can reach up to 2 metres long and 25 centimetres wide. Agave belongs to the agave family and is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its exotic appearance and ease of care. When properly cared for, it can produce a single huge cone that can reach up to 6 metres in height.

The most famous product made from agave is undoubtedly tequila. This is made from the juice of a strictly regulated species of agave, Agave tequilana, also known as maguey or blue agave. Agave is also widely used to make a sweetener called agave syrup, which is a popular alternative to sugar. It has a lower glycemic index than sugar, which means it causes a slower rise in blood sugar levels. Another agave product is mezcal, which is a strong alcoholic drink similar to tequila. Agave Americana is also used to produce sisal, a hard fibre used to make rope, burlap, carpets and various coarse textiles. In addition, its juice is used medicinally to treat wounds and other skin ailments.