Source: Wikimedia Commons
Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave)
IntermediateAgave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis
The largest member of Agave utahensis, with leaves 3-5.5 cm wide forming rosettes up to about 1 m across. It grows on rocky outcrops around the Grand Canyon region of Arizona and looks quite unlike the small varieties.
About
Kaibabensis is a subspecies of Agave utahensis native to Arizona, known in English as the Kaibab agave. According to the Flora of North America, the rosettes are 30-60 cm tall and 40-100 cm wide, the lanceolate leaves 27-50 cm long and 3-5.5 cm wide with marginal teeth of 3-5 mm set 2-4 cm apart, and the stout tip spine 2-4 cm. The flower stalk reaches 3.5-5 m and blooms from mid spring to early summer. It grows on limestone or sandstone outcrops at 700-2,500 m, from desert scrub into pinyon-juniper and neighbouring conifer woodland. The typical subspecies (which includes eborispina and nevadensis) has leaves 1-3 cm wide and rosettes 15-40 cm wide, so leaf width and plant size tell them apart. Where eborispina is chosen for its dramatic spines, kaibabensis is valued for its bold, large habit. The utahensis group dislikes humid heat, so summer airflow is the key to growing it. In Japan specialist nurseries sell plants, though not in large numbers.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave)
The Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave) grows to Rosettes 30-60 cm tall and 40-100 cm wide.
Basic Info
Origin
Arizona, USA (limestone or sandstone outcrops at 700-2,500 m)
Lifespan
Perennial; the flowering rosette dies and offsets carry on
Size
Rosettes 30-60 cm tall and 40-100 cm wide
Temperature
5〜40℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Full sun and good airflow; it grows large, so allow room.
Watering
The utahensis group dislikes humid heat; prioritise airflow in summer and water only when the mix is thoroughly dry.
Temperature & Winter
Native to rocky sites at 700-2,500 m. Hardiness data are scarce, so winter it dry in a bright spot out of the rain.
Soil & Repotting
A rock-dwelling plant: use a very free-draining gritty mix.
Notes
Tell it from the small varieties by leaf width (3-5.5 cm) and plant size. The tip spine is stout and sharp.
Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave) FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave)?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave) get?
The mature size of Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave) is Rosettes 30-60 cm tall and 40-100 cm wide. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave)?
Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave): watering & fertilizer — Light feeder; a little slow-release fertiliser in the growing season is enough. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave)?
The price of Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave) varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
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
Not listed in the CITES Appendices, and not designated as an Invasive Alien Species or Uncategorized Alien Species under Japanese law.
Sources: Species+ (CITES) query for Agave utahensis: not listed / Ministry of the Environment, list of Invasive Alien Species (no Agave listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Agave utahensis subsp. kaibabensis (Kaibab agave) Listings
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