Agave shawii ‘Shaw’s Agave’
Agave shawii, also known as Shaw’s Agave or the Coastal Agave, is native to our local San Diego County habitat.
This medium-sized agave forms rosettes about 3 feet in height and 4 feet in width. The thick, dull green and yellow colored leaves of Agave shawii are typically about 2 feet long. Leaves are additionally edged with deep red or rust colored teeth that eventually merge into a long point at the tip of each leaf.
Furthermore, Agave shawii produces lovely red or yellow flowers at maturity. These flowers blossom on a large stalk about 12 feet tall that emerges from the center of the rosette. However, the rosette typically dies after it blossoms.
Unfortunately, this agave is endangered and there are only 2-3 clusters of Agave shawii in the region that have not been transplanted. However, northern Baja contains many more untouched specimens of Shaw’s Agave.
Agave shawii is also extremely drought tolerant. In other words, it flourishes in full sun and does not require frequent watering. It should be watered a couple times a month and once a week in the spring during its growing season.
This agave is additionally a great plant for containers. However, ensure that the container has sufficient drainage and that Agave shawii is planted in loose, well-draining soil. Only water once the soil is completely dry. In conclusion, Agave shawii is a lovely and exotic addition to xeriscapes and succulent gardens both in the ground or in containers.
Horticultural Data
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- Names and Synonyms: Agave shawii
- Common Names: Shaw’s Agave; Costal Agave
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Origin: San Diego, California; Baja, Mexico
- Size Label: 1 Gallon
- Height: 2-3′
- Width: 3-4′
- Cold Tolerance: 25 to 50°F; -3.9 to -1.1°C
- Heat Tolerance: High
- Light Requirement: Full sun
- Water needs: Very drought tolerant. To clarify, water infrequently and ensure that soil has completely dried in between waterings.
- Maintenance: Remove dead leaves.
- Uses: Brings bulk and greenery to succulent or cactus gardens and xeriscapes.
- Propagation: Divide and replant pups or propagate through seeds from the flowers.
- Problems: Thorns can be dangerous, especially on mature Agave shawii. Plant away from a walkway. Additionally, this agave is susceptible to weevils so be sure to check regularly for these pests.
- Special notes: Endangered and almost extinct.
Research Links:
https://www.growplants.org/growing/agave-durangensis
https://worldofsucculents.com/agave-durangensis/
Shipping & Availability
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There is a minimum purchase for online orders and consequently orders must have at least 4 plants of any types. All plants are shipped bare root, however other sizes may be available for pick up from our growing grounds in Fallbrook, CA. For more information, give us a call at 760-990-4762.
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