The Story
Plant Bio
Agave parryi 'Chihuahua form' is a compact, rosette-forming succulent with thick, bluish-green leaves edged with sharp, dark spines and a terminal spine, forming an attractive, drought-tolerant ornamental plant.
This cultivar is distinguished by its smaller, denser rosette and more pronounced spine coloration, making it particularly desirable for xeriscaping and rock gardens.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
18 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Sap is a skin irritant; toxic if ingested
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or offsets into well-draining soil
- Water sparingly after planting, avoid overwatering
- Place in full sun for optimal growth
- Allow 6 weeks for roots to establish
- Mulch lightly to prevent weed growth
- Avoid watering in winter to prevent rot
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between watering 🌱
- Provide full sun for best color and form
- Use well-draining sandy or gritty soil
Don't
- Overwater during winter ❌
- Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
- Expose to excessive shade ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Parry's Agave Chihuahua form questions
What zones can Parry's Agave Chihuahua form grow in?
Parry's Agave Chihuahua form 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 Parry's Agave Chihuahua form deer resistant?
Yes — Parry's Agave Chihuahua form is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Parry's Agave Chihuahua form bloom?
Parry's Agave Chihuahua form 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 Parry's Agave Chihuahua form need full sun?
Parry's Agave Chihuahua form does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Parry's Agave Chihuahua form drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Parry's Agave Chihuahua form handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Agave to compare
Utah Agave Kaibabensis
Agave utahensis 'kaibabensis'
Toumey's Agave
Agave toumeyana
Slimfoot Century Plant
Agave gracilipes
McKelvey's Agave
Agave mckelveyana
Vanzie Whale's Tongue Agave
Agave ovatifolia 'Vanzie'
Frosty Blue Whale's Tongue Agave
Agave ovatifolia 'Frosty Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Parry's Agave Chihuahua form 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.