Octopus Agave – Desert Horizon Nursery

Octopus Agave

Agave vilmoriniana

Light
Water
Low water once established; water deeply, then let soil dry thoroughly. Occasional summer irrigation improves appearance; water sparingly in winter.
Description
A sculptural agave with long, narrow, arching and twisting leaves that resemble octopus tentacles; leaf margins are nearly toothless.
Deciduous / Evergreen
Special Features
Growth Rate
Growth Habit
Flower Color
Foliage Color
Sap is a skin/eye irritant
Care Instructions

Light: Full sun to light shade; afternoon shade helps prevent scorching in Phoenix’s hottest exposures.

Water: Low water once established; water deeply, then let soil dry thoroughly. Occasional summer irrigation improves appearance; water sparingly in winter.

Soil: Very well-drained sandy, gravelly or rocky soil; avoid heavy clay and locations that collect water.

Mature size: 3–4 feet tall and 5–6 feet wide, excluding the flower stalk.

Bloom: Blooms once, typically after about 7–15 years, usually in spring. The flowering rosette dies afterward.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.

Growth rate: Moderate; relatively fast for an agave with warmth and occasional irrigation.