cactus succulent

Raea's Gold Agave

Agave attenuata 'Raea's Gold'

Same species

Species

1 other cultivar

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Cactus Succulent

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Sap may cause skin irritation; mildly toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Agave attenuata, commonly known as the Foxtail Agave, is a rosette-forming succulent with smooth, arching gray-green leaves that lack spines and produce tall, flowering stalks with yellow flowers. This cultivar, Raea's Gold, is distinguished by its striking golden-yellow foliage that provides a vibrant contrast to the typical gray-green of the species, adding ornamental appeal.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesGolden rosette adds striking visual appeal, especially in xeriscapes and rock gardens.
Practical UsesRequires minimal watering and care, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat for specific desert-adapted insects and birds.

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds or pups into well-draining soil
  2. Water sparingly after planting for 2 weeks
  3. Place in full sun for optimal growth
  4. Mulch lightly to conserve moisture
  5. Fertilize with cactus mix in spring
  6. Allow roots to establish for 6 weeks

Pro Tip

Use sandy, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water infrequently during summer 🌱
  • Ensure excellent drainage to prevent rot
  • Place in full sun for vibrant color

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy clay soil
  • Refrain from excessive fertilizing

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Pest Check
Plant
Propagate
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Desert-themed borderArchitectural focal pointRock garden accent

Companion Plants

Agave parryi Sedum spp. Yucca filamentosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Raea's Gold Agave questions

What zones can Raea's Gold Agave grow in?

Raea's Gold 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 Raea's Gold Agave deer resistant?

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

When does Raea's Gold Agave bloom?

Raea's Gold 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 Raea's Gold Agave need full sun?

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

Is Raea's Gold Agave drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Raea's Gold 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.