One of the most geometric plants in a desert garden: a tight dome of short, dark green leaves outlined in crisp white lines. It grows slowly, stays small and lives for decades, which makes it a favorite for pots, planters and close-up spots.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide. Once established it needs very little. Keep it dry through winter; it rots far more easily from too much water than too little.
Pruning
None needed.
Heat
It takes full sun, but it looks its best with a break from the western summer sun.
Soil
Fast drainage is essential. Gritty soil, a raised planter or a pot with a coarse mix all work well.
How our designers use it
Containers
Its slow growth and perfect symmetry make it one of the best agaves for a pot that will hold it for years.
Rock gardens and planters
A few rosettes among boulders or in a raised bed give a refined, collected look in a small footprint.
Close-up detail
Our designers place it where it can be seen up close, near seating or an entry walk, so the white leaf markings can be appreciated.
Good to know
Around the pool
Its edges are smooth, but every leaf ends in a sharp spine. In a pot or raised planter beside the pool it is easy to admire and easy to avoid.
Flowering
After many years it blooms once and the rosette dies. Some plants form small pups that carry on.
