Agave durangensis - Cenizo

Agave durangensis or Maguey Cenizo is a species found wildly in Durango (hence the name) and Zacatecas. Used for both pulque and mezcal. The name Cenizo refers to it's ashy green grey color. 

Known for its large size and striking features. Its broad, pale blue green leaves boast massive thorns on their big lobes and a prominent apical spike. Growing at altitudes of 1600 to 2600 m (5500 to 8500 ft.) on rocky terrain in both desert and oak habitats, it is highly adaptable to drought but benefits from regular watering during the growing season. It is also tolerant of moderate freezes.

Can flower or be propagated via hijuelo and is a very productive agave. It requires roughly 10 years to reach maturity. In other regions of Mexico such as Oaxaca you may also see Agave americana called Cenizo, however it has recently been determined by the denomination of origen to only be from Durango.