Parry's Agave (Agave parryi)

Parry's Agave

Also known as: Mescal Agave

Parry's Agave (Agave parryi) is a flowering succulent native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Parry's Agave is considered slow-growing compared to other succulent species. It is often cultivated for use in desert-style landscaping, planted as ground cover, and kept as a houseplant. Parry's Agave requires full sunlight and minimal water for optimal growth. In the wild, it grows in scrublands, woodlands, and grasslands.

Scientific classification

Species

Parry's Agave (Agave parryi)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

30 cm to 60 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Gray, Silver, Green, Blue

Leaf Color

4.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Gray, Silver

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Parry's Agave

Distribution of Parry's Agave

Distribution Map

Parry's Agave is primarily indigenous to the high-altitude regions of the North American continent. It has also been introduced and cultivated in various other parts of the world, thriving in semi-arid to arid climates, particularly in areas that mimic its native mountainous and desert habitats.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

High deserts

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Parry's Agave is mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. If consumed in high amounts, especially the leaves or sap, it can lead to poisoning. Immediate veterinary care is crucial upon ingestion to manage potential toxic effects and ensure the pets' well-being.

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Quickly Identify Parry's Agave

Rosette formation of stout, gray leaves with prominent brown spines.

Lemon yellow flowers with a subtle pink tinge on a 10-20 feet tall spike.

Ovate-oblong fruit capsules, 1-2 inches in length with black, glossy seeds.

Semi-succulent leaves up to 2 feet long, gray-green with toothed edges and sharp spines.

Unique flowering event once every 10-15 years culminating in plant death.

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Care Guide for Parry's Agave

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Parry's Agave thrives in arid environments, storing water in its succulent leaves and requiring minimal watering, approximately once every three weeks. It prefers well-draining soil, tolerates dry spells, and is primarily cultivated outdoors, exhibiting a robust growth cycle suited to its desert habitat.

Fertilize: For parry's Agave, use a balanced succulents and cacti fertilizer during the growing season (spring to early fall) at quarter strength every 4-6 weeks. Avoid winter fertilization, water thoroughly before application, and gradually introduce fertilizer to young plants to prevent damage.

Pruning: As parry's Agave develops new leaves, lower leaves will yellow and dry. Timely removal of old leaves maintains aesthetics. Infected leaves should be trimmed to protect healthy ones from pest and disease spread.

Propagation: Parry's Agave thrives in arid regions, conserving water with its rosette shape. Propagation involves carefully dividing offsets, which should be potted in well-draining soil. Keep in a warm area with indirect light, and provide consistent, modest watering to promote growth while preventing rot.

Repotting: Repot parry's Agave every 2 years in early spring using a pot slightly larger than the root ball to prevent rot. Ensure good drainage, place in bright light, and water sparingly post-repotting to support recovery. This succulent requires minimal care for optimal growth.

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Images of Parry's Agave

Distribution of Parry's Agave

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Parry's Agave

Care Guide for Parry's Agave

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