AGAVE PALMERI

Botanical Name: Agave palmeri
Common Names: Palmer’s Agave, Palmer Agave
Mature Size: 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5 meters) in height, 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters) in spread
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerates rocky, sandy, and gravelly substrates
Water Needs: Low; highly drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Broad, bluish-green, fleshy leaves with prominent spines along the edges and a sharp terminal spine
Flowers: Towering flower stalk (up to 15 feet / 4.5 meters) with clusters of yellow flowers, appearing once at maturity
Growth Rate: Moderate

Uses:
Ornamental Plant: Agave palmeri stands out in xeriscapes and desert-themed landscapes due to its bold, architectural form and robust size.
Xeriscaping: An excellent choice for low-water gardens, this agave thrives with minimal care in hot, arid environments.
Habitat Restoration: Useful in native plantings and restoration projects across the American Southwest for its resilience and wildlife support.

Benefits:
Drought Resistance: Well-suited for arid regions, requiring little water once established.
Low Maintenance: Tough and pest-resistant, needing only periodic removal of dead leaves.
Wildlife Support: Its flowers attract pollinators such as hummingbirds, bees, and bats, contributing to local biodiversity.
Structural Impact: Its size and shape provide long-lasting architectural interest in dry-climate gardens.

Agave palmeri is a striking and durable succulent native to the Southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico. It offers both ecological value and sculptural beauty, making it a valuable addition to sustainable landscapes and naturalized plantings.