Also called smooth agave, this one has deep green, gracefully arching leaves with smooth or nearly smooth edges. It brings a lush, tropical look to desert gardens and is easier to place near patios than most agaves. In Phoenix it does best with filtered light and some frost protection.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide. Keep it on the lean side and in well-drained soil. Soggy soil leads to root rot.
Pruning
Trim off any frost-damaged or dead lower leaves. Leave the flower stalk alone while it blooms; removing it early spoils the plant’s look and won’t save it.
Cold
It is one of the more frost-tender agaves sold here. Cover it on nights near freezing, or plant it in a warm, sheltered spot.
Heat and sun
Full western sun is hard on it, and the variegated form needs protection from afternoon sun to survive in Phoenix.
How our designers use it
Near patios and walks
Its mostly smooth leaf edges make it a good choice beside ramadas, patios and paths.
Lush, resort-style plantings
Our designers use it to bridge desert and tropical palettes, alongside palms, bird of paradise and ruellia.
Repeated in groups
Planted in drifts about 5–6′ apart, it reads as a strong, rhythmic accent.
Good to know
Around the pool
Smooth edges and a short tip make it one of the friendlier agaves for pool surrounds. Pups fill in quickly, so leave room or plan to thin them.
Frost
A hard freeze can scar or kill it. Choose a protected spot or be ready to cover it.
