Agave parryi melampodium
Artichoke Agave
Description
This succulent resembles a large artichoke because of the flat-topped rosettes of leaves. This plant can reach 2'-4' tall and 5' wide. It will spread from its pups. This plant has flat, blue gray broad leaves that have sharp spines and tips. A stalk of yellow flowers emerge from the center but it may take 20 years to see a bloom, which marks the death of the plant. This plant tolerates full sun in coastal as well as desert areas. It prefers sandy, well draining soil. It is drought tolerant.
Plant Type
Succulent
Height Range
1-3', 3-6'
Width Range
1-3', 3-6'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Summer
Leaf Color
Blue Green, Grey Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy
Soil Condition
Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish
Accenting Features
Specimen, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Patio, Raised Planter, Roadside, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems.
Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.