Ocahui Agave

Ocahui agave forms a slow-growing, symmetrical rosette of narrow, dark green leaves with smooth margins and a sharp terminal spine. The compact evergreen form works as a sculptural accent in a sunny, dry garden or a large container with excellent drainage. ## Form and landscape use The rosette is generally about 1.5–2.5 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide. [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/agave-ocahui) describes a 1.5-foot plant with a 2-foot spread, while the [Huntington Botanical Gardens](https://media.huntington.org/ISI/ISI2017/2017-07.html) reports mature rosettes around 0.5 m across. A mature plant produces a tall spike with yellow flowers; sources place the stalk around 3 m (8–12 feet). The rosette is monocarpic and dies after flowering, though some plants may form bulbils on the old spike. ## Siting and seasonal interest Provide full sun to light filtered shade and rocky, sandy or gravelly soil that drains freely. Water sparingly after establishment; extra deep watering in the hottest weather can improve appearance. Flowers are reported from late spring into summer in the low desert, but timing varies with climate and maturity. Keep the terminal spine away from walkways and handle with gloves because sap and leaf tips can irritate. ## Maintenance This agave needs little routine care. Avoid routine fertilizing, remove only dead outer leaves, and cut down the spent flower stalk after blooming. Established plants tolerate long dry periods, while new plantings need water until rooted.