1 named cultivar

‘Jaws’Gentry's Agave Jaws

cactus succulent

Gentry's Agave

Agave gentryi

The Story

Plant Bio

A large, robust, solitary agave forming a dense rosette of broad, stiff, gray-green to blue-green leaves. Each leaf is armed with prominent, sharp, reddish-brown teeth along the margins and a formidable terminal spine.

Notable for its large, architectural form and considerable cold hardiness for a plant of its size. It is a monocarpic species, meaning it flowers only once at the end of its long life, producing a spectacular tall flower spike.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking architectural form adds visual interest to xeriscapes and modern gardens.

Drought-tolerant, requiring minimal water once established.

Provides habitat for desert-adapted insects and birds.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

48 inches

Width

72 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or offsets into well-draining soil
Water sparingly until established, about 6 weeks
Place in full sun for optimal growth
Avoid overwatering in winter to prevent rot
Use cactus mix or sandy soil for planting
Protect from frost in colder zones

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
Provide full sun for best color and form
Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
Apply cactus fertilizer during active growing season

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil ❌
Expose to frost without protection ❌
Use rich, moisture-retentive soil ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Arid succulent garden bedDrought-tolerant focal pointModern desert landscape

Companion Plants

Agave parryi Yucca filamentosa Echinocereus Sedum spp.Aloe vera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gentry's Agave questions

What zones can Gentry's Agave grow in?

Gentry's Agave is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gentry's Agave deer resistant?

Yes — Gentry's Agave is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Gentry's Agave bloom?

Gentry's Agave typically blooms in late summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Gentry's Agave need full sun?

Gentry's Agave does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Gentry's Agave drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Gentry's Agave handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.