Agave, Parry's

Parry's Agave in bloom in a Delta County xeriscape

Cold-hardy blue-green rosette-forming succulent for xeriscape and rock gardens. Architectural specimen plant; dramatic tall branched bloom stalk at maturity. Deer resistant, very low water. ID from field photo — confirm variety (parryi vs. var. neomexicana).

Plant Characteristics
Genus
Agave
Species
parryi
Family
Asparagaceae
Plant Color
Blue-green
Height
1–2 ft foliage; bloom stalk 10–20 ft
Width
2–3 ft
Water Use
Low
Care Instructions

Full sun; fast-draining soil (gravel/sand). Very drought tolerant once established — water deeply but infrequently. Cold hardy for Western CO (approx. USDA zone 5). Monocarpic: the rosette blooms once (10–20 ft stalk), then dies, leaving offset 'pups' that carry on. Mind the sharp terminal spines near walkways.