Species

Agave striataNarrow Leaf Century Plant

1 other cultivar

‘falcata’Curved-Leaf Century Plant

cactus succulent

Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant

Agave striata 'Espadina Form'

The Story

Plant Bio

Agave striata is a succulent perennial forming a dense rosette of narrow, stiff, grey-green leaves. After many years, it produces a tall flower spike with greenish-yellow flowers.

This form is notable for its dense, spherical rosette of very narrow, stiff, grey-green leaves, resembling a sea urchin.

Uses & Benefits:

The striking striped leaves add architectural interest to xeriscapes and desert gardens.

Requires minimal watering, making it ideal for water-wise landscaping.

Provides habitat for native insects and helps prevent soil erosion.

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

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Sap is a skin irritant; mildly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late summer – Late fall

In flower about 4 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or pup 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
Apply cactus or succulent fertilizer during growing season
Mulch lightly to retain moisture and control weeds

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage and avoid overwatering to keep healthy.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
Provide full sun for best coloration
Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
Apply cactus fertilizer in spring and summer

Don't

Don’t overwater during winter ❌
Avoid shade which can cause etiolation
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
Never expose to frost without protection

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery succulent borderDesert-themed rock gardenLow-maintenance drought-tolerant bed

Companion Plants

Agave parryi Yucca filamentosa Sedum spp.Echinocactus grusonii Aloe vera

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant questions

What zones can Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant grow in?

Espadina Form Narrow 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 Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant deer resistant?

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

When does Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant bloom?

Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant 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 Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant need full sun?

Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Espadina Form Narrow Leaf Century Plant drought tolerant?

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