Often referred to as Parry's Agave, the Agave parryi plant species is an herbaceous perennial that is beloved of many homeowners.
Many people love it for its easy to grow nature, attractive summer blooms, and relatively easy long-term care.
Parry's Agave (Agave parryi) photograph by Allie_Caulfield.
It was named after the 19th-century botanist, Charles C. Parry and is native to a range of habitats from Texas and New Mexico, across the majority of the Southwest.
It readily grows in oak forest areas and the arid desert regions.
Agave parryi plant growing outdoors, image by Megan Hansen; CC.
Parry's Agave is a succulent plant that can readily grow in a range of conditions from USDA zones seven to ten. In Europe it is classified as a hardiness zone H2 plant, thus it is considered to be a cold tolerant plant but is not tolerant of being frozen.
This plant is easy to grow as it tolerates drought and survives in a range of soils. Ideal soil requirements are a well-draining rocky, sandy soil that keeps the amount of moisture to a minimum.
Ideally plant in an area that provides full sun, though it will grow fairly well in a partially shaded area.
Agave parryi Var. Huachucensis photograph by Juan Ignacio 1976; CC.
Parry's Agave specimens can grow to a width of between two and three feet (60 to 90 cm). For most of the time plants reach about 20 inches high (50 cm). However after a few years the plant produces tall flowering stalks, which can reach 20 feet high (6 m).
Agave parryi blooms in the summer. The flowers are yellow.
If you live in an area that has large amounts of rain and snow then it is best to shelter Parry's Agave from cold, damp conditions.
Parry's Agave photograph by Patty Mullins; CC.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Agave parryi. You may also enjoy the following succulent plant growing guides:
How to grow Mesembryanthemum, Rochea, Ice Plant and Euphorbia.