Agave parrasana, also known as cabbage head agave or cabbage head agave is a compact, slow-growing succulent with a spherical, symmetrical rosette that resembles an artichoke or cabbage.

Origin

• Native to northeastern Mexico, specifically the mountainous regions in the state of Coahuila.
• Grows naturally at altitudes of about 1350–2400 meters in dry, rocky slopes, chaparral scrub, grassy slopes and mixed pine-oak forests on calcareous soils.
• Endemic to semi-arid mountain regions with extreme drought, daytime heat and cold nights; adapted to frost and low precipitation.
• Related to Agave parryi, but more compact and with wider leaves.

Care

• Grows slowly to a compact rosette about 60 cm high and 60–90 cm wide; leaves broad, short, thick, blue-green-grey with wax coating, sharp dark teeth at the edges and a long terminal spine.
• Prefers full sun tolerates light partial shade, but full sun gives the best color and compact growth.
• Plant in very well-drained soil (sandy, gravelly, rocky, or cactus/succulent mix); pH neutral to slightly alkaline; Avoid heavy clay or wet feet (root rot risk).
• Watering: extremely drought tolerant; give sparingly — allow soil to dry completely between waterings (soak-and-dry method); moderate in summer, almost dry in winter.
• Winter hardiness: excellent for an agave (USDA zones 7b–10); tolerates frost down to -12 to -18 °C in colder climates, apply mulch or overwinter as a container plant frost-free.
• Fertilization: little to none; in case of emergency in spring, a low dose of cactus/succulent manure; avoid over-fertilization.

Usage

• Mainly ornamental plant (ornamental): appreciated for its architectural, spherical rosette, blue-green color and symmetry; Perfect for drought-resistant gardens, rock gardens, borders, containers or cactus/succulent gardens.
• Attracts attention in xeriscape and desert landscapes; after many years (20–30+) produces a tall flowering stem (up to 4–6 m) with yellow flowers (often reddish opening); Mother plant dies afterwards.