Agave attenuata ‘Kara’s Stripes’

This is a new plant called Agave attenuata Kara’s Stripes (Variegated Fox Tail) that was discovered as a sport in the U.S. by Golden Gate Palms. I imported this variety about two years ago and it seems to grow very well here in Australia, much the same as the normal green Agave attenuata.

Agaves are in the family of Agavaceae, and are well known for their large and bold structures. These plants are mostly monocarpic, meaning that they flower only once in the life of the plant and produce a flower about 5 to 10 feet high which has a fox tail shape. Generally Agaves are rosette forming, with spirally-arranged leaves that emerge from the centre.

 What is striking about Agave Kara’s Stripes is its yellowish coloured leaves which have thin green margins on the outside. Another nice feature of this variety is its lack of spikes and fleshy leaves, making it quite safe around children. It will clump to about 3 to 4 feet tall and wide, with offsets produced at the base. This agave will grow well in full sun or part shade, and grows in most conditions including coastal areas. It will be very interesting to see what happens when this variety flowers, as to whether the seeds will revert back to the green form or hold its true yellowish colour. The best colouring is achieved when this variety is planted in full sun.

The original form of Agave Attenuata is a native variety from central Mexico and gets names like the unarmed agave because it has no spines, century plant it is more commonly know by. These Agave Attenuata are all the same in there growing habit but are just different in there colouration which makes them ideal for a feature plant in the garden or can be used in big pots, as the plant clumps out it becomes even more attractive. Agave Attenuata have stunning big fleshy leaves which form a rosette and are drought tolerant but will take regular watering and feeding in good drained soils if required, it prefers full sun or part shade. Contact us if you require any of these varieties.