Blue Fox Tail Agave

The Blue Fox Tail Agave is a stunning blue-grey selection of the Agave attenuata. Like the species, this chalky blue-grey attenuata is gentle and graceful with smooth, pliable leaves free from menacing teeth or claws. But, unlike the prolific green Fox Tail Agave, ‘Boutin Blue’ is more of a lone wolf, a solitary rosette that seldom pups, if ever.

Agave attenuata ‘Boutin Blue’, also known as ‘Nova’, is a frost-tender, beautiful agave with a large rosette and an unusual, trunk-forming stem. This moderately growing agave seldom produces offsets or pups. The individual rosette may grow 4 to 5 ft. wide and has 15 to 35 leaves that are blue-grey or blue-green, soft, slightly curved, and wider in the middle. The smooth, light grey, bare stem is stout and distinctive, slowly reaching a height up to 3 ft. tall or more. Compared to regular green Agave attenuata, ‘Boutin Blue’ has blue, broader leaves and an erect flower spike.

The soft, harmless leaves make Blue Fox Tail Agave a great choice near pathways or in patio containers. It can be planted as individual accents or in groupings throughout the garden, in borders, or on slopes. Agave attenuata ‘Boutin Blue’ is stunning in succulent gardens, waterwise landscapes, as well as Mediterranean or Southwest garden design styles.

This low-maintenance Agave is easy to grow and drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for frost-free gardens of all sizes. With its large, soft rosettes resembling blue flowers, the Blue Fox Tail Agave adds beauty and lushness to the landscape. Order your Blue Fox Tail Agave today for delivery to your home.

Choosing the Right Location

• Sunlight: Agaves thrive in full sun, so select a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Some varieties can tolerate partial shade, but they generally prefer bright conditions.
• Space: Consider the mature size of the agave you’re planting. Ensure there’s enough space around it for air circulation and to accommodate its growth.

Soil Preparation

• Soil Type: Agaves prefer well-draining soil. Sandy or gritty soil is ideal, as it helps prevent root rot.
• pH Level: They typically thrive in soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Most garden soils are suitable, but you can amend heavy clay with sand or gravel to improve drainage.

Planting the Agave

• Timing: The best time to plant agaves is in spring or early summer when the weather is warm, allowing them to establish before winter.
• Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots ample room to grow.

Planting Steps

1. Remove the Plant from the Pot: Carefully take the agave out of its container, trying not to damage the roots.
2. Loosen Roots: If the roots are tightly bound, gently loosen them to encourage outward growth.
3. Place the Agave: Position the agave in the center of the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Avoid planting too deep, as this can lead to rot.
4. Backfill the Hole: Fill in the hole with soil, gently packing it down to eliminate air pockets. Water the soil lightly after planting to help settle it.

Watering

• Initial Watering: Water the agave thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots.
• Ongoing Watering: Agaves are drought-tolerant and prefer to dry out between waterings. Water every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season (spring to fall) and reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
• Avoid Overwatering: Ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot.

Fertilizing

• Fertilization Schedule: Agaves typically do not require much fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.
• Amount: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate quantity.

Mulching

• Mulch Layer: Apply a 2-to 3-inch layer of inorganic mulch (like gravel or rocks) around the base of the plant, keeping it away from the trunk.
• Benefits: Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds while providing a decorative look.

Pruning

• Pruning Time: Remove dead or damaged leaves as needed. Pruning is generally minimal, as agaves naturally shed their lower leaves over time.
• Caution: Use gloves when handling agave leaves, as they can be sharp.

Q: Is Blue Fox Tail Agave a fast grower?
A: The Blue Fox Tail Agave grows slower than both Ray of Light and regular green Fox Tail Agave.

Q: Does the Blue Fox Tail Agave produce offsets?
A: The Blue Fox Tail Agave seldom produces offsets. Its root growth and pupping is not as robust as green Agave attenuata. However, pups, (or offsets), can occur if the stem is injured or cut but not with the same vigor as regular Agave attenuata.