Agave Selections and Care

Agaves date back 10,000 years. Plant Delights Nursery in Raleigh, North Carolina has one of the most extensive agave collections in the world. Renowned plantsman Tony Avent showcases several varieties with interesting form, size, color and habit. Learn optimum growing conditions plus propagation methods for this historically significant plant.

Post author By NPT Editorial
Post date April 3, 2025
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Plants Featured in this Clip

AGAVE x pseudoferox 'Green Goblet'
AGAVE striata
AGAVE bracteosa
AGAVE mateo (Mateo hardy century plant)
AGAVE lophantha 'Splendida'
Agave ovatifolia (Whale's Tongue, Hardy Century plant)
Agave lechuguilla (shin dagger)

Gardener Extras

In cold climates, agaves require external drainage (best to site on a slope to allow water run off) and internal drainage (loose soil mix that allows quick filtration).
The Aztecs used the agave for many things: the production of vinegar, syrup, wine, and sugar. Researchers have found that agaves dated back to 6,500 B.C. They were an essential food source for many people.

Gardener Notes

www.plantdelights.com

Marty DeHart

Marty's lifelong passion for plants has led her to a long and varied career in horticulture: she's been a professional grower of gloxinias and African violets as well as perennials, a native plant propagator, a landscaper and landscape designer. She deeply enjoys learning constantly and sharing what she learns about plants, particularly information and techniques that can produce thriving plants and green-thumbed gardeners.