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Plant Profiles / Artichoke agave
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Artichoke agave
Agave parryi var. truncata · Parry's agave
A tight, sculptural rosette of broad blue-grey leaves tipped with dark spines, like a giant artichoke.
Full sunLight
Every 3–4 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Needs full sun.
Water
Every 3–4 weeks
DryWet
Water deeply when completely dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry air.
Temperature
-10–40°C (14–104°F)
CoolWarm
Very cold and heat tolerant when dry.
Growth
Slow
SlowFast
Grows 30–60 cm wide.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Gritty mix with extra grit.
Fertiliser
Once a year
RarelyOften
Light feed in spring.
Pet safety
Toxic
SafeToxic
Sap irritates; spines are sharp.
About this plant
From the mountains of Mexico, this compact agave is one of the hardiest. It grows slowly into a 60 cm rosette and produces pups around its base. It flowers once after many years, then dies.
Best spots
Sunny balconies, modern pots, courtyards and dry gardens.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Agave parryi var. truncata |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Origin | Mexico, US Southwest |
| Plant type | Succulent |
| Mature size | 30–60 cm |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Flowers | Tall yellow spike once in decades |
| Toxicity | Toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Pups |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Remove pups
Fertilise
Water less
PlantRemove pupsFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Rot at the base | Overwatering or wet winter. |
| Pale leaves | Needs more sun. |
| Scale insects | Treat with horticultural oil. |
| Leaf damage | Protect from hail and knocks. |
Common questions
Is it spiky?
Yes, keep away from walkways.
Is it frost hardy?
Very.
Is it pet safe?
No.
Will it die after flowering?
The main rosette does; pups carry on.
