Good xeriscape or container plant, mixing well with other desert species. Succulent, half hardy, rosette shape with rounded top. This agave has grayish green leaves, spatula shaped, with hooked spines on margins. Leaves are 20 inches long in large, basal rosette, and have shorter spines along edges. After approximately 25 years, the plant shoots up a flowering stalk to 18 feet and can be up to four inches in diameter.
Buds are reddish orange, turning yellow after opening.
Blooms June to August. After blooming, this plant dies. This plant is pollinated by insects and hummingbirds. The juice of this species can be irritating to the skin. Native Americans use plant for food, fiber, soap, beverages and medicines.