Agave attenuata
Family: Asparagaceae, formerly Agavaceae​
​Common Names: foxtail agave, lion's tail agave, swan's neck agave
Origin: Agave attenuata originates from the plateaus of Central Mexico, at elevations of 6000-8000ft.
Description: An evergreen, perennial succulent lacking spines or thorns, A. attenuata is characterized by green-blue rosettes that can reach 6-8ft wide and 4-5 feet tall. During the summer, yellow-white flowers may be produced from a tall stalk reaching up to 10 feet in height. 
  • Interesting Features:
    • ​A. attenuata will only flower after reaching 10 years of age or older. At the same time, because agave are monocarpic, plants will only flower once before dying. 
  • Uses: This species be used to make tequila, although brand varieties are created from Agave tequilana. Additionally, A. attenuata can be used as a natural snail control, rivaling synthetic molluscicides. Rural communities often use this species as a safety snail control, and as a replacement for tape-worm medication.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Low
    • From spring to fall, water thoroughly when soil is dry. In the winter, watering should be reduced to once a month only.
  • Soil: Agave attenuata should be planted in sandy or rocky soil that is well-draining, with a neutral pH (6.6-7.5). To aid drainage, cover the bottom of pots with a layer of gravel.
  • Lighting: Full sun or partial shade is required in order for this species to thrive. However, the foxtail agave can easily be grown indoors when placed by a sunny window.
  • Propagation: Propagation is possible both through seed and offsets, although the latter is the most common and easiest method of propagation. Simply remove the pups and repot.
  • Cold Tolerance: 25-40° F, USDA hardiness zones 9b -11.
  • Special Accommodations: A. attenuata should be protected from frost and predation by slugs and snails. Additionally, the sap may be mildly toxic to children and pets, and care should be taken when planting this species.

Sources:
  1. World of Succulents
  2. University of Arizona Campus Arboretum
  3. San Marcos Growers
  4. Green and Vibrant
  5. Dave's Garden
See this species in the Mark Dimmitt Desert Plant Conservatory Virtual tour