Pulque Agave (Agave salmiana)

Family: Asparagaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Agave salmiana is an evergreen Perennial growing to 2 m (6ft) by 2 m (6ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Shoots, Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet juice which then exudes for the next 3 - 4 months is collected and fermented. — The sap is fermented to make the alcoholic drink 'pulque'.; As soon as the inflorescence bud appears (at an age of about 7 years), it is excised.; The sweet juice which then exudes for the next 3 - 4 months is collected and fermented.; Sometimes a brandy is produced by means of distillation of pulque which contains 4 - 8% ethanol.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 9)