Desert agave
Agave deserti

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

A succulent plant. It can be simple or form clumps. It grows 2.4-4.5 m high and spreads 40-60 cm wide. The leaves are narrow and 15-40 cm long. They are bluish-green to grey and have small sharp teeth along the edge. The flower stalk is 2.4-4.5 m tall. It is branched. The flowers are bright yellow.

There are about 250 Agave species. The Agavaceae are mostly in the tropics and subtropics.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows in desert areas. It can grow in arid places. Melbourne Botanical gardens. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Central America, Mexico, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The flowers and flower buds are eaten. The flower stalks are baked and the starchy cake eaten. The leaf bases are baked and eaten. The sap is used to make an alcoholic drink. Caution: Alcohol is a cause of cancer. The flower nectar is eaten.

Edible parts

Flowers, flower buds, flower stalk, sap, nectar, leaf base

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Agave consociata Trel.; Agave deserti subsp. deserti; Agave deserti var. deserti;