Species

Agave palmeriPalmer's Agave

1 other cultivar

‘Cutty Shark’Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark

cactus succulent

Palmer Agave Ruby

Agave palmeri 'Ruby'

Same species

Species

Agave palmeriPalmer's Agave

1 other cultivar

‘Cutty Shark’Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

36 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9

Water

Infrequent, drought-tolerant

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Low toxicity, spines can cause injury

The Story

Plant Bio

Agave palmeri, commonly known as Palmer's agave, is a robust, rosette-forming succulent with thick, fleshy, blue-green leaves edged with spines and a tall flowering stalk producing yellow flowers. The 'Ruby' cultivar is distinguished by its striking reddish-pink leaf margins that add vibrant color contrast to the typical blue-green foliage, making it a standout ornamental succulent.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Sharp, sculptural form adds striking visual interest to xeriscapes and rock gardens.

Requires minimal water and maintenance, ideal for drought-prone areas.

Provides habitat for native insects and small birds seeking shelter among spines.

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 to prevent root rot
Fertilize lightly in spring with cactus fertilizer
Mulch minimally to prevent excess moisture

Pro Tip

Use gritty, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Ensure excellent drainage 🌱
Water deeply but infrequently
Provide full sun for vigorous growth
Remove dead leaves to maintain appearance
Use cactus fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater during winter ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil ❌
Expose to excessive shade ❌
Neglect pruning of dead leaves ❌
Use rich, moist 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

Spiky succulent accentDesert-themed borderLow-maintenance rock garden

Companion Plants

Agave americana Yucca filamentosa Echinocactus Sedum spp. Aloe vera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Palmer Agave Ruby questions

What zones can Palmer Agave Ruby grow in?

Palmer Agave Ruby is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Palmer Agave Ruby deer resistant?

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

When does Palmer Agave Ruby bloom?

Palmer Agave Ruby 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 Palmer Agave Ruby need full sun?

Palmer Agave Ruby does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Palmer Agave Ruby drought tolerant?

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