Blue agave

Agave is native to Central America, notably Mexico, and was considered sacred by pre-Columbian civilizations. The plant’s leaves, edged with sharp spikes, were used in ritualistic ceremonies while its “pulque,” an alcoholic liquid obtained from agave sap, was believed to facilitate communication with the Gods. In the 16th century, Spanish navigators were intrigued by this succulent plant’s juice. Applying their technical skills to its distillation, they created a drink—tequila— which is now one of the most consumed in the world.