Agave Desmettiana
Agave desmettiana is a graceful agave with a soft rosette shape and graceful curves at the end of the leaves.
Its nickname, smooth agave, hints at its non-prickly nature. Although they do have terminal spines, they are short and relatively dull.
Despite these soft features, this is one tough plant that has adapted to harsh desert conditions.
Botanical name: Agave desmettiana
Other names: Smooth agave
Agave desmettiana for sale at the nursery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Agave Desmettiana Appearance
Agave desmettiana is a small to medium sized agave that grows to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
The medium green succulent leaves grow from the center in a rosette shape. They curve out gracefully and taper toward the end, creating wave-like patterns. They do have terminal spines, but they are short and not very sharp. Some develop tiny teeth along the leaf margin.
Variegated agave desmettiana (agave desmettiana variegata) is medium green with yellow running along the margins of the leaves as shown in the nearby image.
Clumping growth habit. They tend to grow many offsets near the mother plant.
Towards the end of its life, the agave will grow a tall flower spike with numerous yellow flowers.
Variegated agave desmettiana
Agave Desmettiana Landscaping Tips
Agave desmettiana does not have sharp spines compared to most agaves and can be placed in areas near heavy foot traffic. You can also completely remove just the short spines using a sharp pruner. [Another agave that does not have sharp spines includes foxtail agave.]
Great for adding interesting texture to the garden. It has a soft and floral look that blends well with harsher-looking desert plants.
Grows a generous number of offsets, so this is a easy plant to spread around the landscape and also to share with others.
Can tolerate some frost. Keep in a container and move indoors if your area gets below freezing temperatures for a long period of time.
Agave desmettiana in a 5 gallon container
Agave Desmettiana Origin
Agave desmettiana is from eastern Mexico, where it is warm and dry
Agave Desmettiana Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 28 degrees for a short period of time.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun. Filtered sun or partial shade in Palm Springs area is best.
Agave Desmettiana Problems
Pests: Agave desmettiana has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Agave Desmettiana Propagation
The main agave will grow many offsets or pups from the mother plant throughout its lifespan.
FAQ
How much does agave Desmettiana cost?
At our nursery, agave desmettiana costs $10 for a 1-gallon container, $35 for a 5-gallon container, $85 for a 15-gallon container and $175 for a 24” box.
Prices are subject to change. Please get in touch with us for the most up-to-date pricing information. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How big does Agave Desmettiana get?
Agave desmettiana grows to about 3 feet tall and wide.
Does agave Desmettiana have sharp spines?
No, it has small, relatively dull spines compared to most agaves.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 3 feet X 3 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Blooms at the end of life cycle |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun/Partial Shade |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Slow |
| HARDINESS | 28º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | None |