Agave Tequilana

Agave tequilana has been prized for centuries for its sugary sap for eating and drinking.

For landscaping, it works great with desert and Mediterranean themed gardens. Long, pointed sword-like leaves form a symmetrical rosette shape, creating a stately architectural shape, while its pale blue-green color lends the landscape a soft desert feel.

Botanical name: Agave tequilana

Other names: Blue agave, tequila agave

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One nickname for agave tequilana is blue agave. It has muted blue-green, waxy leaves that help it withstand the desert heat.

Medium- to large-sized agave that grows to about 6 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The leaves are long and narrow and taper at the tips. Pointy terminal spines and teeth along the margin of the leaves.

A cluster of yellow-green flowers bloom from a 20 feet long flower stalk that appears at the end of the agave's life. Followed by seed pods.

Agave tequilana is famously used for creating tequila, but is also used for agave nectar, which is a type of sweetener, and pulque, another alcoholic drink. The sugary sap comes from the heart of the agave, also called the piña in Mexico.

Historically used by native populations not only for its sap, but also for its tough fibers for creating rope, clothes, and baskets.

Typically pollinated via bats and hummingbirds.

Creates many offsets throughout its life, making it easy for propagation.

Agave tequilana is native to warm and dry areas in Mexico

Soil: Loose, well-draining and slightly fertile soil.

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 25 degrees for a short period of time.

Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out 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 to partial shade

Pests: Agave tequilana has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially at the bottom of the agave)

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 tequilana produces offsets throughout its lifetime. Remove the offsets to propagate.

How much does Agave Tequilana cost?

At our nursery, agave tequilana 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 contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is agave Tequilana cold hardy?

Agave tequilana can tolerate frost, but it is best to grow it in regions where the temperatures do not get lower than 25º F.

Can I make tequila with agave Tequilana?

Agave tequilana is the plant used for making tequila, but it is a very arduous and involved process.