AGAVE OVATIFOLIA

Botanical Name: Agave ovatifolia
Common Names: Whale’s Tongue Agave
Mature Size: 3–5 feet (1–1.5 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; tolerates clay, rocky, and sandy conditions
Water Needs: Low; very drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Broad, cupped, blue-gray to silver leaves with small spines along the margins and a sharp terminal spine
Flowers: Massive flowering stalk (up to 14 feet / 4.2 meters) with greenish-yellow blooms, appears once at maturity
Growth Rate: Moderate

Uses:

• Ornamental Plant: Agave ovatifolia is admired for its unique rosette shape and wide, whale tongue-like leaves, making it a stunning centerpiece in xeriscapes and architectural landscapes.

• Xeriscaping: Excellent choice for dry landscapes, needing little water and providing visual impact year-round.

• Container Gardening: Suitable for large pots in patios or modern garden designs due to its symmetrical growth and bold form.

Benefits:

• Drought Resistance: Withstands extended dry periods, making it ideal for arid and semi-arid environments.

• Cold Tolerance: One of the most cold-hardy agaves, tolerating temperatures down to -15°C (5°F).

• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established and resists most pests and diseases.

• Ecological Value: Flowering stalks attract birds, bats, and pollinators before the plant completes its life cycle.

• Landscape Impact: Adds sculptural structure and silvery contrast to gardens, thriving in sun-drenched, open spaces.

Agave ovatifolia is a bold, resilient, and visually striking agave species that brings sculptural beauty and reliable performance to water-wise gardens. Its broad leaves, symmetry, and cold resistance make it one of the most popular agaves for both home and public landscapes.