Agave attenuata
Also known as: Foxtail agave, lion's tail
The foxtail agave: the only common agave with no spines at all, on a distinctive curved neck. It comes from Mexico (Michoacán), stays around Rosette 60–100 cm on a curving 1–2 m flower-less neck, and tolerates USDA 9b–11; protect below ~2 °C. Individual plants vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Key facts
- Genus: Agave
- Origin: Mexico (Michoacán)
- Mature size: Rosette 60–100 cm on a curving 1–2 m flower-less neck
- Hardiness: USDA 9b–11; protect below ~2 °C
- Toxicity: Non-toxic, essentially spineless
Succulent at a glance
- Genus
- Agave
- Origin
- Mexico (Michoacán)
- Mature size
- Rosette 60–100 cm on a curving 1–2 m flower-less neck
- Growth habit
- Soft, spineless broad rosettes on a smooth curving stem
- Leaf colour
- Soft blue-green, smooth-edged, no teeth
- Flower colour
- Greenish-yellow curved flower spike (monocarpic)
- Hardiness
- USDA 9b–11; protect below ~2 °C
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic, essentially spineless
- Other names
- Foxtail agave, lion's tail
About the Agave attenuata
The foxtail agave: the only common agave with no spines at all, on a distinctive curved neck. Landscape-famous for its soft look and the giant swan-neck flower spike. Frost-tender — protect below about 2 °C.
Care and cultivation
Agaves want full sun, sharp drainage and space. Most are monocarpic: the main rosette flowers once and dies, leaving pups to continue. Wear eye protection when working near spined species, and keep winter rain off the crowns of tender species. Light: Full sun to very bright light. Water: Every 2–3 weeks in summer; little in winter. Use a Extremely gritty mineral mix.
Description
Agave attenuata is an Agave succulent from Mexico (Michoacán). The foxtail agave: the only common agave with no spines at all, on a distinctive curved neck. Landscape-famous for its soft look and the giant swan-neck flower spike. Frost-tender — protect below about 2 °C.
Identification
Look for: Soft blue-green, smooth-edged, no teeth leaves in a Rosette 60–100 cm on a curving 1–2 m flower-less neck form. Also answers to Foxtail agave, lion's tail. The genus is Agave, which already narrows down the care requirements considerably. Nickname: 'Foxtail agave'.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water my Agave attenuata?
Every 2–3 weeks in summer; little in winter. Always let the soil dry completely between waterings, and water less in winter when growth slows.
How much light does Agave attenuata need?
Full sun to very bright light. If the plant stretches or loses colour, it needs more light.
Related succulents
Succulent information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Agave attenuata, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.