Species

Agave striataNarrow Leaf Century Plant

1 other cultivar

‘Espadina Form’Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant

cactus succulent

Curved-Leaf Century Plant

Agave striata 'falcata'

The Story

Plant Bio

A succulent perennial forming dense, spherical rosettes of very narrow, stiff, gray-green leaves, each tipped with a sharp terminal spine. Mature plants produce a tall, dramatic flower spike.

The 'falcata' variety is noted for its gracefully curving or twisting leaves, which are sickle-shaped (falcate), creating a softer, more rounded silhouette than the species type. The leaves are often a bluish-gray color.

Uses & Benefits:

Striking architectural form adds dramatic appeal to xeriscapes and desert gardens.

Requires minimal watering and maintenance, ideal for low-water landscapes.

Supports drought-resistant planting, conserving water and supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesAgave striataNarrow Leaf Century Plant

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

24 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Infrequent, drought-tolerant

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer

In flower about 1 month of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose well-draining soil and a sunny spot.
Tuck roots into soil, firm gently, and water sparingly.
Mist cuttings weekly until roots develop, about 6 weeks.
Apply cactus or succulent fertilizer during growing season.
Ensure pot has drainage holes and avoid overwatering.
Mulch lightly with gravel for additional drainage.

Pro Tip

Use gritty, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between watering 🌱
Provide full sun for optimal growth
Use well-draining soil or gravel around roots
Apply cactus fertilizer during active growing season

Don't

Don't overwater or leave in soggy soil ❌
Avoid shady locations that reduce drought tolerance
Do not fertilize with high-nitrogen fertilizers
Never expose to freezing temperatures without protection

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural succulent focal pointDesert-themed borderLow-water xeriscape

Companion Plants

Agave parryi Echinocactus grusonii Sedum spp.Yucca filamentosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Curved-Leaf Century Plant questions

What zones can Curved-Leaf Century Plant grow in?

Curved-Leaf Century Plant 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 Curved-Leaf Century Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Curved-Leaf Century Plant bloom?

Curved-Leaf Century Plant typically blooms in late summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Curved-Leaf Century Plant need full sun?

Curved-Leaf Century Plant does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Curved-Leaf Century Plant drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Curved-Leaf Century Plant handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.