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Agave
ovatifolia
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Description:
Agave ovatifolia is solitary (non-offsetting) with a
hemispherical rosette reaching anywhere from 2-5 feet tall by
3-6 feet across. When grown hard, the plant will stay on the
smaller end while those grown with ample moisture will attain
maximum size. The common name, Whale's Tongue comes from the
short, wide, distinctively cupped leaf blade. Marginal teeth are
small, and the dark grayish black terminal spine is about 1 inch
long. The paniculate inflorescence is 10-14 feet tall and
consists of several side branches, each densely clustered with
large, greenish yellow flowers
Habitat and Distribution: Agave ovatifolia is found
in the sierras in northeastern Mexico. It occurs at elevations
from 3,700-7,000 feet.
Culture: Place Agave ovatifolia in full sun or very
light filtered sun, it grows quite well under the shade of small
trees like Eysenhardtia orthocarpa or Leucaena
retusa. In the low desert zone of the southwestern United
States, the plant will b Agave ovatifolia is hardy,
having withstood winter lows of about 4–5°F in Dallas without
sustaining damage. The growth rate is moderate, taking several
years to achieve full size. Plants are tolerant of most soil
types as long as drainage is good. Grow hard (minimal water and
fertilizer) to keep plants towards the smaller end of the
spectrum. When given ample water they can attain a size of 2
meters tall and 2 meters wide.
Uses: Agave ovatifolia has many uses. It can be
placed in a decorative pot and used as a focal point on a patio.
When planted in the ground, it can be used in all zones of a
xeriscape. The plant does great when placed under the shade of
small trees like Acacia willardiana, Eysenhardtia
orthocarpa, or Leucaena retusa. Agave ovatifolia
fits in nicely with cactus, and other succulent and
semi-succulent plants. It would also look attractive when
planted near large boulders.
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Planted in a Tucson Landscape |
Agave ovatifolia in habitat |
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| A closer shot of Agave ovatifolia in habitat | Close up in habitat |
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