Native to arid and semiarid areas from the southwestern U.S. to Peru. Most species occur in Mexico. The thick fibrous leaves form tight rosettes that vary from 7 cm to over 4 m in diameter. The plant, exhausted after producing the huge inflorescence, dies after flowering. It is replaced by offsets and seed, although some species do not offset and reproduce from seed only.
Most agaves are too large to be grown in pots, but the many dwarf forms are becoming better known.
The larger species are popular in the landscape in milder climates. Agaves need space, and bright sun. Although they appreciate well-drained soil, the hardier species do not need it. Agaves hate cold, wet soil. Agave parryi Agave parryi in flower Agave fernandis-regis Aloe Family Asphodelaceae.