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Agave
parrasana is a small species with a few
offsets. In maturity it forms a short stem. The leaves
are 5-7 inches wide and 10-23 in. long; they are ovate with a sharp
tip. The leaves are blue-gray and rough. A very strong
bud imprint marks the leaves, which are usually cross-banded, often
with a pink cast and end in a brown spine 1-2 inches. long.
The bloom forms on a stalk 6-10 ft. The buds and bracts are
reddish, but the flower opens bright yellow. Blooms may begin
early in late-February or March to June. It is thought to take
15 years for a plant to bloom. This is a forgiving ornamental
species as long as there is adequate soil drainage. Full sun
to part shade. In the low desert it is winter hardy.
It's small size makes it a good container plant where the dramatic
bud imprints and leaf crenations can be easily admired.
Agave
parrasana is a plant of the coastal zones of the Mexican state of
Sonora with one population in higher elevations in the state of
Sinaloa. In all areas of its natural distribution it is
uncommon. It is relatively uncommon in cultivation.
Propagation is by seeds or offsets.
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