Agave parryi (Parry's Agave)

This slow growing Agave forms a compact rosette of silver-blue leaves that have marginal dark brown teeth and very prominent dark tips. Each rosette will flower only once, usually at some point between 10-15 years, sometimes 20-30 years. One huge flowering stalk will rise from each rosette with large clusters of creamy yellow flowers. Plant dies after blooming. Native Americans used this agave as a source of food, fiber, soap and medicine.

Good drainage is a must, especially in the winter. Best growth occurs in sandy/gritty, dry to medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Cold hardiness — zone 7b.