Wonderful architectural plants, Agaves grow as spectacular rosettes that can vary from 15cm across to as large as 5m, depending on the species.  Once mature (from between 5 years for smaller species up to 40 years for larger ones), Agaves produce a spectacular flower spike from the centre of the rosette.  The flowers are bell-shaped and usually cream in colour, and can last for quite a long time.  Once the flowers have finished, the rosette dies – but by then (in most cases) the plant has produced offsets that continue to grow.

Most Agaves like a position in the full sun with well-draining soil.  They should not require fertilizing unless the soil is poor in nutrients, in which case a slow-release fertilizer could be applied in Springtime.  Agaves should be kept dry in Winter but many will need some Summer watering.  Dry-tolerant and hardy, Agaves provide wonderful form and year-round interest to the garden.