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Cactus SucculentConservatory Greenhouse

Agave attenuata

foxtail agave

A succulent perennial producing an evergreen rosette of silvery, pale green leaves on top of a thick stem. An arching stem of yellow flowers can emerge from the rosette in summer, reaching to 1.5m in height

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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Yellow Grey Silver Green
Summer Yellow Grey Silver Green
Autumn Grey Silver Green
Winter Grey Silver Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H1C
Botanical details
Family
Asparagaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Potentially harmful
Skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats): harmful if eaten. For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Genus

Agave can be perennial or monocarpic succulents, forming rosettes of usually rigid, fleshy, spiny-edged leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers in racemes or panicles often much taller than the rosettes

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Mexico

How to grow

Cultivation

Frost tender, so in most locations, this perennial can only be grown outdoors in summer. Use a free-draining compost. Grow under glass in cactus compost in full light. Water less in autumn and keep dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for more advice

Propagation

Propagate by offsets

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Sub-tropical
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.