The Mexican maguey plant (also called the agave — the terms are more or less interchangeable in casual conversation) can inspire visions of desert gardens or the many expressions of mezcal we proudly produce, among plenty of other possibilities.
Magueyes have edible flowers, which are a delicacy enjoyed across Mexico. Magueyes are also processed into agave syrup, rope fibers, and so many other products.
Historically, magueyes played a vital role in indigenous cultures across Mexico and extended into what is now the southwestern U.S. There’s no doubt this plant can multitask. Key foods, tools, construction materials, and much more all came from maguey leaves, stalks, and other parts of the plant.
The many varieties of agave may now be best known to an international audience as the source of beverages including mezcal, pulque, and tequila.