desert agave

Also known as: Information to be completed

A perennial succulent with a rosette of thick, sharp-tipped, greyish-green leaves 15-40cm long. Offsets are produced freely. In summer mature plants may produce tall (2m) spikes of silvery yellow flowers. This species is from very arid, desert environments and will tolerate low temperatures provided it is kept absolutely dry

Scientific classification

Species: desert agave (Agave deserti)
Genus: Agave
Family: Asparagaceae

Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Toxicity: Cactus Succulent · Conservatory Greenhouse
Plant type: 0.5-1 metres
Height: 1-1.5 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Clump forming
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

desert agave pictures

Distribution of desert agave

Distribution map

USA (California, Arizona), N. Mexico

Information to be completed

Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Quick identification of desert agave

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desert agave care guide

Let gritty soil dry fully before each deep watering cycle
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Let gritty soil dry fully before each deep watering cycle

Fertilizing

Very dilute low-nitrogen succulent feed monthly in warm growth

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by removing offsets in spring or autumn

Growing

Grow under glass in cactus compost, water sparingly when in growth, but keep dry over winter. Apply a dilute, liquid fertiliser 3 or 4 times during the growing season. Outdoors plants can be grown in a raised desert bed but must be given complete protection from winter wet. See hardy cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice

More growing and care information →