cactus succulent

Kara's Stripes Agave

Agave attenuata 'Kara's Stripes'

Same species

Species

1 other cultivar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

36 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Sap is an irritant; toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Agave attenuata, commonly known as the Foxtail Agave, is a rosette-forming succulent with smooth, curved, blue-green leaves that lack spines along the margins and produce tall, graceful flower spikes. Kara's Stripes cultivar features striking variegated foliage with cream and green stripes, adding ornamental appeal and unique visual interest to succulent collections.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesStriking striped foliage adds visual interest to xeriscapes and succulent collections.
Practical UsesHighly drought-tolerant, reducing water needs and maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for native pollinators and supports desert ecosystem health.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or pups into well-draining soil
  2. Water sparingly after planting to establish roots
  3. Place in full sun for optimal growth
  4. Allow soil to dry completely between watering
  5. Apply cactus/succulent fertilizer monthly during growing season
  6. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and regulate temperature

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
  • Provide full sun for vibrant foliage
  • Use cactus soil mix for best drainage
  • Remove dead or damaged leaves

Don't

  • Don't overwater, especially in winter ❌
  • Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
  • Don't fertilize during dormancy
  • Refrain from excessive watering during cloudy days

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Spiky succulent accent in rock gardensDesert-themed borderDrought-tolerant container display

Companion Plants

Sedum Echeveria Agave parryi Yucca filamentosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Kara's Stripes Agave questions

What zones can Kara's Stripes Agave grow in?

Kara's Stripes Agave is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Kara's Stripes Agave deer resistant?

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

When does Kara's Stripes Agave bloom?

Kara's Stripes 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 Kara's Stripes Agave need full sun?

Kara's Stripes Agave does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Kara's Stripes Agave drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Kara's Stripes Agave with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.