In east Torrance, thieves have been targeting agave plants, hacking off and stealing their distinctive waxy, serrated leaves. The plants themselves remain untouched, but the missing leaves have left homeowners puzzled and concerned.
According to UC Davis professor Samuel Sandoval Solis, a water resource specialist, the stolen leaves are likely being used for cooking. Agave leaves are known for their culinary uses, particularly in traditional Mexican cuisine, where they can be used to wrap foods for roasting or to extract sweet sap.
The rise in agave theft coincides with a growing interest in agave farming in California. As climate change prompts farmers to seek drought-tolerant crops, agave has become increasingly popular. Before 2023, only 50 acres of agave were grown statewide, but that number has now quadrupled to over 200 acres. This surge in interest has been dubbed the “agave rush” by Sandoval Solis.
The stolen leaves in Torrance are part of a broader trend as agave gains popularity both for its drought resistance and its cultural significance. The thefts highlight the need for increased awareness and protection of these valuable plants.
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