Agave macroacantha (Black-Spined Agave)

Agave macroacantha (Black-Spined Agave) is a slow-growing, evergreen succulent forming pretty rosettes of narrow, pale blue-green leaves, armed with small brown teeth along the edges. They are adorned with a stout, dark chestnut brown, terminal spine. While infrequent, mature plants (over 15 years) flower only once. They are topped with a magnificent flowering spike that can reach 6 ft. (180 cm), and bears dense clusters of purple-tinged green flowers. The flowering rosette dies after flowering, but new rosettes formed by offsets will root at the base of the mother rosette forming a lovely architectural clump.

• Grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm) and 2-4 ft. wide (60-120 cm). May reach 6 ft. (180 cm) with flower stalk.
• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Easily grown in slightly acidic, sandy, or gravelly, well-drained soils in full sun. Will appreciate some shade in very hot areas. Water freely in summer, giving a low-nitrogen feed three or four times. Water less in autumn and keep dry in winter. Although drought tolerant, this plant will benefit from supplemental water in the heat of summer.
• Great for beds and borders, rock gardens, succulent gardens, or Mediterranean gardens. Ideal as an accent plant in sunny borders or in decorative containers.
• Plant away from foot traffic: the needle-sharp spines on the leaf tips can be a hazard to humans and pets. Don’t plant this Agave near paths or walkways
• Virtually disease free. Watch for scale insects.
• Propagate by seed, or remove offsets
• Native to Mexico