Artichoke Agave

Plant Type: Succulent / Agave
Plant Height: 2–3 feet
Spread: 3–4 feet
Flower Color: Yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Variegated Artichoke Agave: Compact, Sculptural Accent with Striking Color
Variegated Artichoke Agave (Agave parryi truncata variegated) is a beautifully patterned form of the classic Artichoke Agave, prized for its tight, geometric rosette and bold variegation. Its compact size, thick leaves, and cool blue-gray tones edged in creamy yellow make it a perfect specimen for both modern and traditional Arizona landscapes. Combining resilience with elegance, this variety delivers year-round texture, color, and structure with almost no maintenance.

Key Features of Variegated Artichoke Agave

• Distinctive Variegation: Broad, symmetrical leaves display creamy yellow edges against a silvery-blue base.
• Compact, Sculptural Form: Tightly layered rosette resembles an artichoke, adding order and refinement to landscapes.
• Drought and Heat Tolerant: Thrives in Arizona’s full sun and intense heat with minimal water once established.
• Cold Hardy: Withstands frost and temperatures as low as 10–15°F, making it one of the most adaptable variegated agaves.
• Low Maintenance and Long-Lived: A slow-growing, enduring plant that retains its color and structure for decades.

Growing and Care Tips
Soil: Prefers well-draining soil such as sandy loam, rocky mixes, or cactus blend. Avoid heavy, water-retaining soil.
Water: Deeply water after planting and continue 2–3 times per week for the first month. Once established, water every 3–4 weeks or only when soil is completely dry.
Fertilizer: Rarely necessary. Apply a diluted cactus fertilizer once per year in early spring to support steady growth.
Temperature: Hardy down to 10°F once mature; protect younger plants from extended frost.
Maintenance: Remove old or damaged leaves near the base to maintain symmetry. Avoid watering into the rosette to prevent crown rot.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent or Specimen Plant: Perfect for focal points, courtyards, and entryways.
• Container Plant: Ideal for decorative pots and raised planters in sunny locations.
• Desert and Modern Landscapes: Works beautifully with boulders, gravel, and steel or concrete accents.
• Low-Water Landscapes: Excellent for xeriscapes and sustainable desert designs.

Summary
The Variegated Artichoke Agave (Agave parryi truncata variegated) combines compact form, cool color, and bold variegation to create a sophisticated focal point for Arizona landscapes. Its sculptural rosette, creamy margins, and resilience to both heat and cold make it one of the most beautiful and reliable variegated agaves available. Designed for minimal care and maximum impact, it’s a timeless addition to any desert garden.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
Variegated Artichoke Agave Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of sunlight daily)
Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
Spacing: 3–4 feet apart to allow for mature spread
Planting Depth: Keep root ball level with surrounding soil
Support: No staking required; ensure firm soil contact

Watering Guide:
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball. Continue watering every 3–4 days for the first month, providing deep soakings to help roots establish.

When is the Plant Established? Variegated Artichoke Agave is typically established after 3–4 months, once new leaves appear and the plant is securely rooted.

Watering Once Established: Water deeply every 3–4 weeks during summer. In cooler months, water only when the soil is completely dry to avoid overwatering.

Drip Irrigation Setup: Place emitters 6–10 inches from the plant’s base, circling the root zone. Use low-flow emitters (0.5–1 gallon per hour) and adjust watering frequency seasonally based on temperature and rainfall.

General Watering Tips: Allow the top few inches of soil to dry completely before watering again. Avoid overhead watering and keep the rosette dry. A top dressing of gravel or decomposed granite helps regulate moisture and showcases the agave’s beautiful variegation.