Genus Agave

Agave Agave americana Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais
ah-GAH-vay
Agave are rosette-forming succulents with pointy, fleshy fronds, often with terminal points. Flowers are borne on leafless stems from the center of the rosette. In most species, the rosette dies after flowering and offsets emerge to mature.
Noteworthy characteristics: Rigid, fleshy, pointed leaves often with teeth, in shades of green and green-blue.
Care: Under glass, water freely during summer, let dry in winter. Outside, grow in moderately fertile, very well-drained soil in full sun.
Propagation: Remove offsets in sping or autumn.
Problems: Scale and mealybug. Root rot is common in poorly drained soil.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Agave

Agave americana Agave americana
(American aloe, Century plant)
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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This plant has a rosette of broad sword-like, succulent, gray-green leaves. It provides a statuesque presence for sunny dry sites and under glass. It's also a classic plant for urns, thanks to the architectural splendor of its simple form.

Agave parryi Agave parryi
(Mescal)
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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

This plant has a dense rosette of fleshy blue-gray leaves and produces tall, cream-colored flowers tinged with red or pink in summer.