This suckering perennial succulent forms a short trunk to 450mm (1½ft) long that is topped with a rosette of stiff blue green lanced-shaped leaves. The greenish funnel-shaped flowers appear on a tall stem from the centre of the plant during summer.  

Hardiness zones 9 to 11 

Agave angustifolia is naturally found from Central America in the West Indies to Mexico in North America growing from sea level to an altitude of 500m (1,640 ft). 

It prefers a well drained, moderately fertile sandy soil in an open sunny to semi shaded position and is drought, salt spray and light frost tolerant.

The Caribbean Agave is grown for its symmetrical habit and its foliage colour. It is planted in rockeries or arid gardens as a specimen or used in groups on embankments. It is also grown in patio pots and planter boxes or used in courtyards or on roof gardens. It establishes from offsets in 3 to 5 years and produces flowers after 10 years. It is suitable for coastal and inland regions tolerating salt spray and poor soils. 

This succulent is also used in the manufacture of Tequila and the fibres are used for making rope, soap and other products. The variegated form is the more commonly cultivated plant and is used for foliage contrast. ID 2129

Agave (a-GAH-vee) angustifolia (an-gust-i-fo-lee-a)

Agavaceae (ah-gav-AY-see-ee)