Foxtail Agave is a lovely, low maintenance succulent that is popular for its smooth, harmless leaves, free from any sharp points. Its large, soft rosettes resemble green flowers, adding graceful beauty to any landscape. Being drought tolerant, these Agave can be used in pots, rock gardens, succulent gardens and more.
How to care for Foxtail Agave
Light. Grows best in full sun but adapts to some shade.
Water. Water while it establishes; after that it needs little irrigation. It tolerates heat and drought.
Soil and feeding. It tolerates sand, clay, loam and alkaline soil. Drainage is essential, since wet soil causes root rot; use a container in soggy spots.
Size. Grows slowly to about 4 ft across; the rosettes usually stand 2–3 ft tall.
Problems to watch. Few problems affect most plants. The agave snout weevil is the pest to watch for in agaves.
Good to know. Its soft leaves end without a spine, so it suits gardens where children play. It handles moderate salt exposure. After 10 years or more a tall flower spike appears and that stem dies; detach basal suckers to start new plants.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS FPS 22 (archival): Agave attenuata, Spineless Century Plant · UF/IFAS EDIS FPS22: Agave spp., Century Plant · UF/IFAS Extension Charlotte County: Agave - get the point!
