Agave parryi (Parry's Agave)

This slow growing Agave forms a compact rosette of silver-blue leaves that have marginal dark brown teeth and very prominent dark tips. It is also noted for its infrequent but spectacular flowering spikes. Each rosette will flower only once, usually at some point between 10-15 years, but sometimes flowering will not occur until 20-30 years. One huge flowering stalk will rise from each rosette, with each stalk producing 20 to 30 side branches and with each side branch containing a large cluster of creamy yellow flowers. Plant dies after blooming. Native Americans used this agave as a source of food, fiber, soap and medicine.

Good drainage is a must, especially in the winter. It is cold hardy in north Texas to around 10-15°F.  Best growth occurs in a sandy/gritty, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Tolerates some light shade. Sharp soil drainage is important. Poorly-drained soils inevitably lead to root rot. Tolerates dry soils and drought.

 Cold hardiness - zone 7b.