Variegated Smooth Agave

Plant Type: Agaves
Plant Height: 2-3 feet
Spread: 3-4 feet
Flower Color: yellowish-green
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Variegated Agave desmettiana (Variegated Smooth Agave) – A Safe, Drought-Tolerant Succulent for Arizona Landscapes

The Variegated Agave desmettiana, commonly known as Variegated Smooth Agave, is a stunning succulent native to Mexico. This agave is highly prized for its variegated foliage, with blue-green leaves edged with yellow or cream-colored stripes. Its smooth, spineless leaves and compact size make it an ideal choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and water-efficient landscapes in Arizona.

Key Features of Variegated Agave desmettiana:

• Variegated, Spineless Leaves: The broad, fleshy leaves of the Variegated Smooth Agave are free of sharp spines, making it a safer option for gardens. The leaves are blue-green with striking yellow or cream margins, adding a vibrant and colorful element to your landscape.
• Compact Rosette Form: This agave forms a dense rosette of smooth-edged leaves, creating a symmetrical and architectural appearance that serves as a focal point in both outdoor gardens and container plantings.
• Flowering Event: When mature, the plant produces a tall flowering stalk, adorned with clusters of yellowish-green flowers that attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. While the flowering signals the end of the plant’s life, it often produces offsets ("pups"), allowing the lineage to continue.

Ideal for Xeriscaping and Water-Efficient Landscapes

The Variegated Smooth Agave is an excellent choice for xeriscaping and desert-themed gardens in Phoenix and other arid regions. Its ability to thrive with minimal water once established makes it a sustainable, low-maintenance option for water-efficient landscaping.

• Drought-Tolerant: Like all agave species, the Variegated Agave desmettiana is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
• Low-Maintenance: Once established, this agave requires little care, making it a practical option for homeowners focused on water conservation and low-maintenance landscaping.
• Safe for Families & Pets: With spineless leaves, this agave is a great option for gardens where people and pets may come into contact with the plant.

Why Choose Variegated Agave desmettiana for Your Arizona Landscape?

• Colorful & Safe: The variegated foliage adds a vibrant splash of color to your garden, while the spineless leaves make it a safer choice for homes with children or pets.
• Water-Wise Landscaping: This agave is perfect for xeriscape gardens and water-efficient landscapes, thriving in arid environments with minimal watering.
• Versatile & Elegant: Whether used as a focal point in a succulent garden or as a striking container plant for patios or entryways, the Variegated Smooth Agave adds both beauty and practicality to any landscape.

Planting & Care Tips

The Variegated Agave desmettiana thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. Be sure to water sparingly, as this agave is highly drought-tolerant once established. It can also be grown in containers, making it an excellent choice for patios and outdoor living spaces.

The Variegated Agave desmettiana is a colorful, safe, and drought-tolerant succulent that brings both beauty and resilience to Arizona landscapes. Its low-maintenance nature and spineless, variegated leaves make it a perfect choice for xeriscaping and water-efficient gardens in the Phoenix Valley.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Variegated Smooth 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 2-3 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation
• 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: Variegated Smooth Agave is a self-supporting succulent with striking, sword-shaped leaves and does not require staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 7-10 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Variegated Smooth Agave is considered established after 4-6 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 6-8 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering
• 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 frequency to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 6-8 weeks