Species
Agave palmeriPalmer's AgaveThe Story
Plant Bio
Agave palmeri, commonly known as Palmer's agave, is a rosette-forming succulent with broad, grey-green leaves edged with small teeth and a terminal spine, producing tall flower spikes with yellow-green flowers.
The 'Cutty Shark' cultivar is distinguished by its compact size, dense rosette form, and particularly striking, sharply pointed leaves that create an eye-catching, sculptural appearance.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Cactus Succulent
Height
36"
Width
48"
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late summer – Late fall
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck young plants into well-draining soil in spring.
- Water sparingly until established, about 6 weeks.
- Mist cuttings lightly once roots develop.
- Place in full sun for optimal growth.
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering.
- Mulch lightly to conserve moisture in summer.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently 🌱
- Provide full sun for vibrant growth
- Use cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growing season
- Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain health
Don't
- Overwater or keep in wet soil ❌
- Expose to shade or low light
- Use heavy clay soil without amendments
- Neglect winter protection in colder zones
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| 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
Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark questions
What zones can Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark grow in?
Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark bloom?
Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark 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 Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark need full sun?
Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Agave to compare
Toumey's Agave
Agave toumeyana
Utah Agave Kaibabensis
Agave utahensis 'kaibabensis'
Slimfoot Century Plant
Agave gracilipes
Vanzie Whale's Tongue Agave
Agave ovatifolia 'Vanzie'
McKelvey's Agave
Agave mckelveyana
Frosty Blue Whale's Tongue Agave
Agave ovatifolia 'Frosty Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Agave Palmeri Cutty Shark 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.