Source: Wikimedia Commons
Havard's Agave
BeginnerAgave havardiana
An agave from West Texas mountains with top-class cold tolerance. Survives -20°C.
About
Agave havardiana is native to the high mountain terrain of West Texas, particularly around Big Bend National Park, extending into Chihuahua and Coahuila in Mexico. In Japan, this means outdoor cultivation is feasible virtually nationwide, including in areas with significant snowfall. The broad, blue-gray leaves are edged with white to pale yellow teeth and tipped with a stout terminal spine. Mature rosettes reach 40–70 cm tall and 60–90 cm wide. Growth is slow, with flowering taking 20–30 years. Full sun and a well-draining soil mix are recommended. Water sparingly; the plant needs little supplemental water in cold or wet winters. Its extraordinary cold hardiness makes it uniquely valuable for Japanese collectors in cooler regions, and it is considered the benchmark for cold tolerance in agave cultivation.
Lifespan of the Havard's Agave
The Havard's Agave lives Perennial (20-30 years).
Size of the Havard's Agave
The Havard's Agave grows to 40-70cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Havard's Agave
Growing at elevations above 1,000–2,000 m on dry, rocky slopes, it has developed exceptional cold tolerance—reportedly surviving temperatures below -20°C—placing it among the most cold-hardy agave species known.
Basic Info
Origin
West Texas (USA); Chihuahua and Coahuila (Mexico)
Lifespan
Perennial (20-30 years)
Size
40-70cm
Temperature
5〜40℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Minimal
Growing Tips
Cold Tolerance
Top-class cold hardiness (to -20°C+)
Light & Placement
It prefers direct sun. Native to dry rocky terrain, it should be kept outdoors in a sunny, well-ventilated spot.
Watering
Extremely drought-tolerant, so water sparingly. It handles cold and dryness so well that it grows fine even in snowy regions in winter.
Soil & Repotting
Grow in a fast-draining mix. Growth is slow, forming a rosette 60 to 90 cm wide, so pot up once root-bound.
Notes
One of few agaves that can be ground-planted in cold regions
Havard's Agave FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Havard's Agave?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Havard's Agave?
The average lifespan of Havard's Agave is Perennial (20-30 years). With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Havard's Agave get?
The mature size of Havard's Agave is 40-70cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Havard's Agave?
Havard's Agave: watering & fertilizer — Minimal. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Havard's Agave?
The price of Havard's Agave varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Growing Specifications
- USDA Zone
- 7–10
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: CITES Appendices (List of species protected by CITES Appendix II) / Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (confirmed Agave non-applicable)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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