AGAVE ATTENUATA

Botanical Name: Agave attenuata

Common Names: Foxtail Agave, Lion’s Tail, Swan’s Neck Agave, Agave de cuello de cisne

Mature Size: 3–5 feet (0.9–1.5 meters) in height, 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 meters) in spread
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils; tolerant of poor, rocky substrates
Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Soft, blue-green, spineless leaves in rosettes, forming a sculptural, symmetrical appearance
Flowers: Tall, arching flower stalks (up to 10 ft) with pale green to yellow blooms, typically appearing after several years
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Uses:

Ornamental Plant:
Agave attenuata is prized for its dramatic, architectural form and spineless, elegant foliage. Its smooth texture and graceful silhouette make it a focal point in Mediterranean, xeriscape, and contemporary gardens.

Container Gardening:
Its manageable size and striking appearance make it ideal for large containers in patios, courtyards, or entranceways, both as a solo specimen or in group plantings.

Drought-Tolerant Landscaping:
Perfect for water-wise gardens, it pairs beautifully with succulents, gravel, or minimalist hardscape designs.

Benefits:

Architectural Beauty:
With its flowing, curved flower stalk and symmetrical leaf rosette, Agave attenuata adds sculptural elegance to any landscape.

Safe and User-Friendly:
Unlike many agaves, it has no sharp spines, making it safer for use in public spaces, around children, or in high-traffic areas.

Low Maintenance:
Thrives with minimal care, requires little water, and is highly tolerant of heat and poor soils.

Evergreen Structure:
Maintains year-round interest with its lush, structural foliage—even when not in bloom.

Versatile Placement:
Suitable for borders, pots, rock gardens, or as a feature plant in both modern and classic garden designs.

Agave attenuata is a stunning, low-maintenance succulent that combines dramatic form with everyday practicality. Its soft, spineless leaves, drought resistance, and bold visual presence make it a must-have for designers and garden enthusiasts alike.