Parryi Agave

Plant Type: Agaves
Plant Height: 1-3 feet
Spread: 2-4 feet
Flower Color: yellow
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Agave parryi (Parry's Agave) – A Striking, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Arizona Landscapes

Agave parryi, commonly known as Parry's Agave or Mescal Agave, is a stunning succulent renowned for its dense, symmetrical rosettes of thick, blue-green leaves. The leaves are edged with spiny margins and end in a sharp terminal spine, giving the plant a bold, architectural appearance. Its striking form and leaf coloration make it a popular choice for ornamental gardening and xeriscaping.

Key Features of Agave parryi:

• Compact, Symmetrical Rosette: The blue-green leaves of the Parry’s Agave are thick and fleshy, creating a dense, symmetrical rosette. The spiny edges and sharp terminal spine add a dramatic, sculptural element to gardens.
• Drought Tolerant & Arid Adaptation: Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, this agave is highly drought-tolerant, making it ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and desert-themed landscapes. It’s also well-suited for high elevations and can tolerate a variety of arid conditions.
• Flowering Event: When mature, Agave parryi produces a tall flower spike, which can reach up to 10-20 feet (3-6 meters) in height, featuring yellow flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the main plant dies but often produces offsets ("pups") that can be replanted.

Perfect for Xeriscaping and Water-Efficient Gardens

The Parry’s Agave is a perfect addition to xeriscaping and water-efficient landscapes in Arizona. It thrives in well-drained soil and requires minimal water once established, making it a low-maintenance option for desert gardens.

• Minimal Maintenance: Once established, this agave requires very little watering and can thrive in full sun or partial shade in particularly hot climates. Its ability to survive with minimal attention makes it a practical choice for low-water-use landscapes.
• Versatile in Use: Its robust, compact form makes Agave parryi suitable for both ground planting and container gardening, where it can serve as a focal point on patios or balconies.
• Cold Tolerance: Unlike many agaves, Parry’s Agave can tolerate colder temperatures, making it suitable for a wider range of climates.

Why Choose Agave parryi for Your Arizona Garden?

• Drought Tolerant: This agave thrives with minimal water, making it perfect for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens in Arizona’s arid climate.
• Striking Visual Appeal: The blue-green leaves, spiny edges, and symmetrical form of Parry’s Agave create a bold, architectural focal point in any landscape.
• Low-Maintenance: Its drought tolerance and minimal care requirements make it an ideal plant for busy gardeners or those seeking water-efficient landscaping.

Planting & Care Tips

The Agave parryi thrives in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade in extreme heat. Plant in well-drained soil to prevent root rot and water sparingly once established. This agave is highly drought-tolerant, making it perfect for desert gardens and rock gardens.

Agave parryi is a stunning, low-maintenance succulent that adds both beauty and resilience to Arizona landscapes. Its drought tolerance, striking form, and minimal water requirements make it an ideal choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and container plantings in the Phoenix Valley.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Parryi Agave

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and rosette development
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Parryi Agave grows in a rosette form and requires no staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Parryi Agave is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the agave for deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks