Agave Attenuata
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Foxtail Agave / Swan's Neck Agave / Lion's Tail
Botanical Name: Agave attenuata
Family: Asparagaceae
Origin: Central–western Mexico
Plant Type: Evergreen succulent (rosette-forming)
Overview
A spineless, architectural agave forming broad rosettes of soft, blue-green to lime-green leaves. In maturity it can send up a dramatic arching “foxtail” flower spike; the flowering rosette then dies, but clumps persist thanks to plentiful pups (offsets). Exceptionally low-maintenance, drought- and coastal-tolerant, and superb in pots or as a feature in SA’s Mediterranean climate.
Key Features
- Mature Size: 0.8–1.2 m H × 1–2 m W per rosette (flower spike to 2–3 m when produced)
- Growth Rate: 10-20 cm per year under good conditions
- Foliage: Broad, smooth, spineless, blue-green to lime-green; sculptural rosette
- Flowers: Tall, arching panicle (late spring through summer); yellow-green blooms sporadically on mature plants (monocarpic rosette)
- Seasonal Interest: Year-round architectural foliage; occasional striking flower spike
- Wildlife Value: Flower nectar for insects and birds
- Tolerance: Drought-tolerant, heat and coastal tolerant; light frost only (protect from hard frosts); handles wind;
- Planting Density: Mass/contrast plantings: 1–1.5 m apart; Specimen/feature: allow 1.5–2 m clear space
- Pet Friendly: Caution — sap can irritate skin; ingestion may cause tummy upset (saponins). Keep pets/children from chewing.
Where It Works Best
- Sunlight: Full sun to light shade (greener in shade; more glaucous in sun)
- Soil: Free-draining sandy/loam soils; raised beds or mounded sites are ideal; great in large containers (cacti/succulent mix)
- Water Needs: Establishment: 1 deep soak/week for 6–8 weeks. Established: deep soak every 3–4 weeks in summer (less if in shade/pots); little to none in winter—let soil dry between waterings
- Maintenance: Remove spent leaves and pups to control spread; no heavy feeding (use low-N, slow-release in spring if desired)
- Lifespan: 10–20+ years as clumps (individual rosettes die after flowering)
- Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA; second-line coastal fine;
- Soil pH: Neutral (tolerates slightly acidic–slightly alkaline)
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Sculptural feature near entries and pool areas
- Containers for patios/courtyards
- Dry/Mediterranean and coastal designs
- Contrast with grasses and dark evergreens (not a privacy hedge)
Why You Will Love It
A spineless, statement agave that’s tough, water-wise and ultra-low-care—perfect for modern, coastal and poolside landscapes.