Agave lophantha 4”

Agave is a striking succulent native to arid regions of the Americas, especially Mexico and the southwestern United States. Known for its dramatic rosettes of thick, pointed leaves, agave comes in a variety of species — from the massive Agave americana (century plant) to compact, collectible varieties like Agave parryi or Agave victoriae-reginae. Some species have bluish tones, striped variegation, or sharp spines along the leaf edges, adding bold architectural interest indoors or out.

Agaves love bright, direct light and thrive in sun-soaked environments. If kept indoors, place them in the sunniest spot possible — a south- or west-facing window is best. Outdoors, they do well in full sun to partial shade, depending on the species. Without enough light, agaves can become leggy or dull in color, so avoid low-light rooms or shaded corners if you're growing one as a houseplant.

When it comes to care, agaves are wonderfully low-fuss. Use a very well-draining soil mix (cactus or succulent blend works well), and let the soil dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the #1 killer — think drought-tolerant, not thirsty. Fertilize sparingly during the warm months with a cactus-friendly fertilizer. Agaves are generally pest-resistant, but watch for mealybugs or root rot if overwatered. With the right setup, agaves can live for years — and while many only flower once in their lifetime (a dramatic spike of blooms), it's a sign of a happy, mature plant.