Agave parryi var. huachucensis

Agave parryi var. huachucensis is a subspecies of Parry's Agave, which differs mainly in the number of leaves that make up its rosette, as well as their more tapered shape. The plant is of medium size for the genus. It develops into a well-regulated bluish rosette, which sometimes gives the impression of being dishevelled by the wind due to its curved leaves all in the same direction. The excellent hardiness of this perennial plant in porous, dry, and poor soil is a boon for collectors of exotic plants. A godsend for arid situations, thin soils, and large rock gardens, this agave will naturally structure a minimalist, mineral design in a dry garden and also on a south-facing terrace.

Native to the extreme south of Arizona in the USA, Agave parryi var. huachucensis is a little-known agave, valued by enthusiasts who seek exotic plants capable of surviving cold and humid winters. This slow-growing botanical species is adapted to semi-desert climates, which are very hot in summer and mild in winter, but withstands heavy frosts if planted in dry soil. It belongs to the Asparagaceae family (formerly Agavaceae), just like Yuccas. This perennial succulent plant has rhizomes capable of producing suckers. Like a large cabbage, it is composed of many overlapping leaves like slates on a roof. The resulting rosette is tall and wide, reaching 75cm (30in) at maturity. The smooth, rigid, and very thick leaves are bluish in colour and edged with spines. The tip of each leaf is armed with a sharp spine ranging from black to reddish. After many years, the rosette matures and produces a flowering stalk reaching 1.5 to 2m (5ft to 7ft) in height. It branches out, each bearing flat and spherical panicles, 7 to 10cm (3 to 4 in) wide, composed of a myriad of small yellow-green flowers. The plant, classified as semelparous, dies after flowering, which lasts several months, having taken care to produce small peripheral rosettes to ensure its perpetuity.

This agave will find its place in a large rock garden or at the edges of a dry garden. It will suit a minimalist, mineral design punctuated by wild grasses like Stipa ichu or Stipa gigantea. It can be planted alongside opuntias, giant fennel, quite hardy cacti (Cleistocactus strausii, Cylindropuntia imbricata), and equally undemanding plants. This agave can also be cultivated in a very large pot on a terrace, carefully choosing the sunniest spot, protected from winter rains.

Agave is an edible plant, used in Mexico to make mescal, an alcoholic beverage obtained by fermenting its juice rich in sugars. It is also used in traditional medicine in Mexico, Brazil, and India, and has proven antifungal properties. Very attractive to bees and nectar-seeking insects, the inflorescences attract many pollinators.