Agave america var. franzosinii

Family

Aspaeagaceae

Native

Mexico

Description

Agave franzosinii also known as Agave beauleriana is a very large, attractive agave with a generally solitary rosette, can grow to 8 feet tall by 10 feet wide. It has powdery bluish-gray large leaves that undulate and bend gracefully. There are teeth along the leaf margins and a sharp terminal spine. 

Agave franzosinii is monocarpic and blooms after 15 to 20 years of growth. Like most agaves the flower stalks resembles a giant asparagus spear. As this grows it branches with panicles of yellow or greenish-yellow flowers at the ends of each branch. The stalks can reach 40 feet tall and are a focal point in the garden while they bloom.

Environment

Agaves need full sun and gritty soil that percolates easily. They can even do quite well when potted but use an unglazed clay pot that will allow evaporation of excess moisture.

Water needs are moderate to light depending upon the heat of the season but the Cactus should be allowed to dry out before irrigation

In growing season they benefit from the application of a granulated time release fertilizer that will provide nutrient to the plant.

Landscape Uses

It is also a popular landscape plant in beach gardens