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Agave parrasana

Cabbage Head Agave

Agave parrasana is a striking evergreen succulent valued for its compact rosette of broad blue grey leaves and bold architectural form. The thick foliage features prominent marginal teeth and dark terminal spines, creating a dramatic appearance and strong year round structure. Agave parrasana is well suited to sunny New Zealand gardens where excellent drainage can be provided. It is ideal for gravel gardens, rock gardens, dry borders, raised beds, and containers. Once established, this slow growing agave tolerates dry conditions well and can cope with cold conditions when kept sufficiently dry, making it an excellent feature for low maintenance landscapes.

Agave parrasana plant with large and fleshy, blue leaves.

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Suited to regions:Alpine, Temperate
Plant type:Succulents
Height:60 cm
Spread:75 cm
Flowering time:Summer
Tolerances:Coastal, Extended dry periods, Hardy
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Parks, Paths & Steps, Pool areas, Specimen
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateMedium
Also known asCabbage Head Agave
Sku15687

How to grow Agave parrasana in NZ

Agave parrasana grows best in full sun with very free draining soil. Choose an open position where water cannot collect around the roots or crown, particularly during winter. Sandy, stony, or gravelly soils are ideal, while heavier soils should be improved substantially before planting or the plant positioned in a raised bed. Water regularly while establishing, then reduce watering once the root system has developed. Established plants tolerate dry periods very well and generally require little supplementary watering. Agave parrasana can tolerate cold conditions, but prolonged winter wet can cause problems, so excellent drainage and good air movement are particularly important.

Agave parrasana care tips

Agave parrasana is a low maintenance plant when grown in full sun with excellent drainage. Water occasionally during prolonged dry periods, allowing the soil to dry between watering, and keep the plant comparatively dry during winter. A light application of succulent fertiliser during spring can support healthy growth, although regular feeding is generally unnecessary. Remove damaged or ageing lower leaves carefully to maintain the tidy rosette. Avoid allowing organic debris or excessive moisture to accumulate around the crown. Take care when handling or working near the plant because the leaves have prominent marginal teeth and sharp terminal spines that can cause injury.

Agave parrasana size, spacing, and growth rate

Agave parrasana forms a compact, rounded rosette and generally reaches around 50 to 70 cm tall and approximately 60 to 90 cm wide at maturity. Growth is relatively slow, with plants gradually developing their dense and symmetrical form over several years. Allow approximately 80 cm to 1 m between specimens so each plant has enough room to develop without crowding. Mature plants can eventually produce a tall flowering stem that rises several metres above the foliage. Its compact dimensions and slow growth make Agave parrasana particularly useful for smaller garden spaces and containers where a strong architectural feature is required.

Landscaping uses for Agave parrasana

Agave parrasana is an excellent landscaping plant for adding bold structure and distinctive blue grey foliage to New Zealand gardens. Use it as a specimen in gravel gardens, rock gardens, dry borders, raised beds, or contemporary landscapes where its compact symmetrical rosette can become a focal point. The foliage contrasts beautifully with decorative stone, ornamental grasses, and other drought tolerant plants. Its manageable size also makes it suitable for substantial containers and smaller garden spaces. Position plants away from narrow pathways, play areas, and frequently used spaces because the prominent leaf teeth and sharp terminal spines can cause injury.

Why buy Agave parrasana from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company is NZ's most trusted plant nursery, supplying quality plants for gardens and landscaping projects throughout New Zealand. Our Agave parrasana plants are carefully grown and selected for health, vigour, and strong establishment. Strict quality standards and careful packing help ensure plants arrive in excellent condition and ready to grow. When you buy from The Plant Company, you can order online with confidence and benefit from expert growing advice, fast delivery, and free shipping on qualifying orders over $150.

Questions and Answers

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