Let’s learn about some awesome plants – Fox Tail Agave
The Fox Tail Agave or Agave attenuata gets its name from its bloom, which curves round much like a foxes tail. This Agave is a fantastic addition to a landscape or pot for so many reasons. The color is vibrant and pleasing, it requires very little water and within the coastal and temperate zones, it does not need to be watered once established. In fact, limiting the water will keep its size in check. One thing that makes this succulent easy to love is its lack or spikes or spines.
The Foxtail Agave or Agave Attenuta is the type of plant that Southern California gardeners should love without abandon. It is easy to come back. Most gardeners if you ask, will be more than happy to give you a pup or cutting. You simply make a small indentation in the ground (or not) and let it grow. It will be happier if you mulch it, but it isn’t necessary. The rosettes resemble flowers and the plant remains green all year with little to no maintenance (or water). Honestly, I’ve grown it in pots and even then it thrives without water.
USDA Hardiness Zone: 9 (with protection),10-11
Sunset Climate Zone: 13 (with protection), 20-24 – find your zone
Sun: Partial to Full Sun
Water: Once established, only occasional water is required.
Size: Actual rosettes grow to about 18″ but they mound to about 5′ tall and wide. That being said, it is not terribly difficult to keep their size in check.
Propagate: This plant is easy to grow from cutting. In fact, once it blooms, the plant produces more than enough pups. Stick stem in the ground and do not over water.
