Desert Rose Agave

Plant Type: Succulent / Agave
Plant Height: 1–2 feet
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: Yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun, Partial Shade

Desert Rose Agave: Compact, Colorful Accent with Sculptural Charm
Desert Rose Agave (Agave potatorum verschaffeltii) is a compact, ornamental agave admired for its soft, blue-green leaves edged with deep red spines. This smaller selection of the classic Butterfly Agave brings elegant curves, vibrant color, and exceptional drought tolerance to Arizona landscapes. Its perfectly symmetrical rosette and subtle red accents give it a warm, desert elegance that stands out beautifully against rock and gravel.

Key Features of Desert Rose Agave

• Soft Blue-Green Color: Thick, sculpted leaves with a powdery texture create a refined and balanced appearance.
• Red Margins and Spines: Rich red edges add dramatic contrast and color to the rosette.
• Compact and Tidy: Grows just 1–2 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide, perfect for small gardens and containers.
• Drought and Heat Tolerant: Thrives in full Arizona sun with minimal supplemental watering once established.
• Low Maintenance: Holds its structure and color year-round with almost no care required.

Growing and Care Tips
Soil: Plant in well-draining soil such as sandy loam, rocky blends, or cactus mix. Avoid heavy or waterlogged 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 when soil is fully dry.
Fertilizer: Rarely needed. A diluted cactus fertilizer once per year in early spring supports slow, steady growth.
Temperature: Hardy to around 25°F; protect young plants from frost during extreme cold.
Maintenance: Remove lower or aged leaves occasionally. Avoid overhead watering to prevent crown rot.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Ideal as a colorful focal point in front yards, entryways, or courtyard beds.
• Container Plant: Perfect for decorative pots on patios or around pools.
• Modern and Desert Landscapes: Adds soft curves and warm color contrast among boulders and gravel.
• Low-Water Gardens: A great addition to xeriscapes and water-conscious Arizona landscapes.

Summary
The Desert Rose Agave (Agave potatorum verschaffeltii) is a compact, colorful accent plant that brings softness and warmth to desert gardens. With its red-edged leaves, sculptural rosette form, and outstanding drought tolerance, it thrives in Arizona’s heat while providing lasting beauty with minimal care. Elegant, tough, and timeless — it’s a must-have for small garden spaces and modern desert designs.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):
Desert Rose Agave Planting Guide:
Location: Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily)
Soil: Well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
Spacing: 2–3 feet apart to allow for mature spread
Planting Depth: Keep root ball level with surrounding soil
Support: No staking required; ensure stable 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? Desert Rose Agave is typically established after 3–4 months, when new leaves appear and the plant is firmly rooted.

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

Drip Irrigation Setup: Place emitters 6–8 inches from the base of the plant, circling the root zone. Use low-flow emitters (0.5–1 gallon per hour) and adjust watering frequency with seasonal temperature changes.

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 thin layer of gravel or decomposed granite improves drainage and highlights the agave’s soft blue-green tones and red accents.