Agave deserti var. simplex [Cunningham Pass, AZ IB159]

Also Known As

Agave deserti ssp. simplex Cunningham Pass, AZ IB159
Agave deserti subsp. simplex [IB159]
Hardy Century Plant

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 15"-20"
W: 20"-30"

planting zones

8a-11

More Options

Agave deserti var. simplex [Cunningham Pass, AZ IB159] plant details

Agave deserti var. simplex [Cunningham Pass, AZ IB159] is an evergreen cactus / succulent with blue foliage. Features glaucous texture. Grows well with sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer, dry in winter. Does well in average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Agave deserti var. simplex [Cunningham Pass, AZ IB159]

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: agavaceae, asparagaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue
Mature size: 20 IN - 30 IN - wide, 15 IN - 20 IN - tall
Uses: architectural, container plant, desert garden, rock garden, rosette-forming, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Agave deserti var. simplex [Cunningham Pass, AZ IB159]

USDA Zones: 8a - 11
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This subspecies differs significantly from subsp. deserti. It is called “simplex” because it is supposedly solitary, forming a more open rosette of silvery grey leaves. Interestingly though, I found a few plants with offsets in the area that I collected it. The rosettes are small, reaching only about 20 - 30” across. It is very attractive, having grey leaves with attractive horizontal banding, but it is still quite rare. Give it good drainage and protection from winter moisture. This collection from near Aguila, AZ can be expected to tolerate temperatures down to about 10 °F. DS.