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    Home»Succulents and Cacti»Agave parryi (Parry’s Agave): Growing and Care Guide

    Agave parryi (Parry’s Agave): Growing and Care Guide

    By Milo MasonSeptember 28, 2022
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    Agave parryi is a gorgeous, drought-resistant succulent that can be grown indoors or outdoors. It is considered among the most recognized Agave in cultivation today, easy to grow and easy to maintain.

    Agave Parryi
    Agave parryi (“Agave parryi” by andrewtoskin is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.)

    This article will provide expert tips for growing a Parry’s Agave and caring for it, so it grows healthy and beautiful!

    in this article:

    • care
    • pruning
    • repotting
    • propagation
    • blooms
    • pests
    • common-problems

    About Agave parryi

    Agave parryi, or Parry’s Agave, is an evergreen succulent plant native to Mexico and the southern United States. It is often grown as an ornamental houseplant because of its dramatic blue-gray coloration.

    It has become popular for its large, symmetrical rosette of stiff leaves that can reach up to 2 feet in height. The leaves are blue-green, with sharp spines lining the edges and a rigid terminal spine.

    Agave parryi is easy to grow and makes an excellent addition to any succulent collection or garden.

    Other than its ornamental uses, this Agave has also been used by native tribes for food and fiber.

    Related Article: Learn about different types of Agave succulents and common varieties

    Botanical NameAgave parryi
    Common NameParry’s Agave, Mezcal Agave, Century Plant
    FamilyAsparagaceae
    Plant TypeSucculent
    OriginAmericas
    MaintenanceLow
    Height1-3 feet
    Width2-3 feet
    LightFull sun, Partial shade
    Bloom seasonSummer
    Bloom colorYellow, Gold
    Water needsLow
    SoilWell-Drained, Loamy, Sandy
    TolerantDeer, Drought, Salt
    ToxicityMildly-toxic
    Hardiness (USDA)7-10

    Agave parryi Care

    Agave parryi is an easy succulent to care for, provided that its needs are met. These include proper lighting, water, and temperature conditions.

    This Agave can be grown indoors or outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 7 through 10.

    Light

    Parry’s Agave appreciates full sun to partial shade, depending on the season. When the plant is actively growing in the summer months, give it a spot in full sun, where it can receive 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

    However, be careful not to allow the plant to suffer through intense, scorching sunlight. Some light shade is necessary to prevent the plant from getting too hot and causing sunburn.

    Soil

    The plant needs soil that is well-draining and sandy. It can tolerate clay, but you’ll need to amend the soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage.

    If planting Parry’s Agave in a container, consider mixing half potting soil and half coarse sand.

    Water

    Agave parryi needs water only when the soil is dry. It’s important not to over-water, as this can lead to root rot. When you water, give the roots plenty of time to dry out before watering again.

    You’ll want to reduce the amount of water you give it during winter.

    Temperature and Humidity

    Parry’s Agave prefers temperatures between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate a range of 45 to 100 degrees, but it must have protection for extreme conditions.

    In general, this Agave does not do well in humid environments. However, it will have no problem dealing with normal room conditions.

    Fertilizer

    Parry’s Agave requires little to no fertilizing. However, if you want to boost it, you can use a weak fertilizer solution once or twice in the spring and summer.

    Low nitrogen fertilizer is recommended. However, it’s imperative to note that too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow too quickly, leading to stunted growth.

    Agave Parryi Cheat Sheet
    Agave parryi cheat sheet (author pjhpix via depositphotos)

    Pruning

    Agave parryi can be pruned to remove old leaves, which will help the plant stay healthy. You’ll want to use sharp scissors or a knife to cut off the dead leaves. You should do this as soon as they appear so they don’t burden the rest of the plant for long.

    Potting and Repotting Agave parryi

    Agave Parryi can be potted or repotted as needed. When the roots start spilling out of the bottom of the pot or the plant has outgrown its container, it’s time to repot.

    Spring or summer are the preferred seasons for repotting, but you can repot Agave parryi at any time of the year. However, it’s an excellent idea to wait until all danger of frost has passed before repotting.

    Prepare

    • Prepare the pot. The best container for an Agave parryi is a clay pot with drainage holes. Choose one at least 2 inches larger than the previous container to make room for future growth.
    • Prepare the soil. Agave parryi needs rich, well-draining soil. The best potting mix is equal parts sand, compost, and perlite.
    • Choose the spot. Place the Agave parryi in a sunny spot with good air circulation.
    • Gather the tools. You’ll need a trowel, pruning shears, and a flat shovel.

    How to Repot (Step-by-Step)

    1. Remove the Agave parryi from the pot. Use a flat shovel to loosen the soil around the plant.
    2. Gently lift the Agave parryi out of its container and shake off any excess dirt from the rootball.
    3. Place a layer of gravel or stones at the bottom of your new pot for drainage.
    4. Fill the container with the pre-selected potting soil up to 1 inch below the rim. Place the Agave in its new container.
    5. Water thoroughly and allow everything to drain quickly.

    Propagating Agave parryi by Seeds (Step-by-Step)

    1. Remove the seeds from the pod. Place them on a dry towel and encourage them to dry for 24 hours.
    2. Fill your pot with potting soil and use a pencil or stick to make holes about ¼ inch deep in the soil.
    3. Place the seeds in the dug-out holes and cover them with more soil.
    4. Water thoroughly and place your new plants under grow lights or on a windowsill so they can germinate.
    5. Once the seedlings have sprouted, remove them from their containers and place them in their own pots.
    6. Water deeply and allow the potting medium to drain quickly.

    Propagating Agave parryi by Offsets (Step-by-Step)

    When your plant has become large enough, it may begin to offset and give off suckers than can be replanted as new Agave. To do this:

    1. Remove the offset from the parent plant by digging around it with a knife or scissors, ensuring not to damage the roots.
    2. Allow the cut end of the Agave offset to heal and callus over.
    3. Place the offset in its own pot and add some well-draining soil.
    4. Water thoroughly and wait for new growth.
    Agave Parryi Leaves
    Agave parryi leaves (“File:Mezcal (Agave parryi), Conservatorio botánico, Fort Wayne, Indiana, Estados Unidos, 2012-11-12, DD 02.jpg” by Diego Delso is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.)

    Blooms

    Agave parryi is monocarpic, meaning it only blooms once before dying. This can be anywhere from 13 to 15 years after a plant is first planted.

    The flowers are yellow and emerge on top of a magnificent, tall flowering stalk that rises from the center of the rosette. In fact, this stalk can get as tall as 20 feet tall.

    New offsets also appear around this time, giving the gardener a way to continue the culture.

    Related:

    How to Care and Grow Agave Bracteosa (Squid Agave)

    Toxicity

    Agave parryi is mildly toxic. It is not considered a serious threat to animals or humans but can cause skin irritation.

    NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.

    Common Pests

    Agave snout weevil

    The most common pest of Agave is the Agave snout weevil. This insect lays eggs in the rosette, hatching and feeding on the plant’s tissue.

    The damage is often noticeable in the form of small holes and leaves that are chewed off. You can control the Agave snout weevil with insecticides, but it may take several applications to eradicate them from your garden completely.

    Scale Insects

    Scale insects are small, brown-colored insects that often appear in clusters on the stems of agaves. They feed by sucking sap from Agaves and other succulents and may cause leaves to turn yellow and die back. You can remove the scale insects by treating the affected areas with neem oil.

    Slugs and Snails

    Slugs and snails are often found in gardens, especially during the rainy season. They feed on the leaves of agaves, causing holes or chewed edges to appear. Lay down organic bait to catch them.

    AVOID

    • Overwatering
    • Placing under harsh sunlight
    • Using poorly drained potting mediums
    • Fertilizing during dormancy

    Common Problems

    • Frost burn: The leaves of the Agave can burn in frosty conditions. This will cause them to turn white and discolored near the edges. Protect the plant from freezing temperatures by bringing it indoors or covering it during cold spells.
    • Sunburn: The leaves of the Agave can burn in direct sunlight. This will cause them to turn brown, dry, and eventually die back. Try to place the plant where it will receive morning sun but not mid-day sun.
    • Overwatering: Overwatering can cause root rot. The plant’s roots will begin to decay and turn brown. This will cause leaves to be yellow and fall off. It is important not to overwater the Agave and let them dry out between waterings.

    FAQ

    Agave parryi grows at a slow rate, growing about 3 inches per year. You should be able to see growth within the first two years, but it can take up to 5 years for this plant to really get going.

    Agave parryi can grow up to 3 feet tall, but it will take several years for this plant to reach that height. It takes about 15 years for this Agave to reach maturity and reach its ultimate height.

    Yes, you can make a specific type of tequila (pulque) with Agave parryi. However, you must ensure that your plant is near maturity before harvesting any leaves.

    1. Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants. ASPCA
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    Milo Mason

    Milo Mason is a self-proclaimed plant whisperer. With a passion for gardening, houseplants, and all things outdoors, Milo has been cultivating indoor plants for the past five years with an interest in perennials and succulents. He enjoys sharing his insights and research on plant species when it comes to care tips.

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