Agave Species, Coastal Agave, Shaw's Agave

A variable species. Endemic to Baja California, extending north into Southern California, where its numbers are more limited. The norther...Read Moren ssp. shawii is generally smaller and found in coastal areas with a mild, often foggy climate, while ssp. goldmanniana occurs further south and ranges inland (where it is hotter and drier). Similar-looking species found elsewhere include A. gentryi, A. montana, and A. salmiana.

Rainfall in NW BC (about 5-10" a year) occurs in fall through spring, mostly in winter. Summers are dry, but temperatures are limited to about 90°F/32°C in the maritime zone. Flowering generally starts in late fall and continues through the winter. The inflorescence of the northern form is about 2m tall, branched, and starts out covered in large purple or green bracts. The flowers are bright yellow. Plants die after they flower but frequently offset and thus can survive for a long time as a clonal colony.

In cultivation this plant is fast-growing (1-2 years to gallon size) and quite tolerant of extended drought when established. Allow plenty of extra space in the garden as many (not all) plants offset profusely when they are prospering, giving rise to a very attractive, fiercely armed clump over time.

Can withstand heat very well, may need a little extra water occasionally in the hotter, dryer desert areas.
Reaches about 3 feet, ...Read Morewith a 15 to 40 foot flower stalk after a 15 year life.

Attractive bright green leaved plant that suckers profusely. Large terminal spine and many large, sometimes hooked lateral spines (caref...Read Moreul!). A native of here (So Cal, and Baja California). It might be considered endangered. Very drought tolerant.