Agave parryi var. truncata

Artichoke Agave

OVERVIEW:

The Agave parryi var. truncata is one of four varieties of the sub species A. Parryi ssp. Parryi. They originate in Mexico in altitudes of 7500 to 9000 feet, but can now be found in Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. Much like the A. Parryi, the Truncata has the same thick, rough, textured leaves, however, this variety has more of a blue color and is significantly more compact and rounded in shape. Not only that, but of all the varieties the Truncata is typically the smallest, reaching maturity at 1-2’ tall and 1 ½- 2 ½’ across.

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Agave parryi truncata

Common Name: Artichoke Agave

Family: Asparagaceae

Monocarpic: dies after 1st and only bloom

Suggested Uses: fantastic potted specimen or north/east facing desert landscape addition

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 1-2’

Width: 1 ½- 2 ½ ’

Flower: on a 10-20’ stalk there are about 25 -30 branches displaying hundreds of orange flowers

Bloom Period: summer

Fruit: NA

ENVIRONMENT:

USDA Zone: 8a-11

Hardiness- can handle lows of 10-15F

Sun: Full sun

Water: In summer, deep water every 10-20 days. Do not water in winter/ dormant months

Soil: Fertile, well-draining soils