Agave vivipara, commonly known as Caribbean Agave, is an evergreen succulent native to a variety of habitats including arid and semi-arid regions, coastal sands, and rocky outcrops in Mexico and parts of the Caribbean. It typically reaches a height and width of 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters). The plant forms a rosette of fleshy, spiny-edged leaves that are blue-green to gray-green in color, and it produces a tall flower spike with yellow to greenish-yellow flowers when it matures, usually after several years. The flowering event is dramatic but signifies the end of the plant’s life cycle.

Caribbean Agave is valued for its drought tolerance, architectural form, and low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and as a specimen plant in warm climates. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or rocky. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot. While it is not commonly afflicted by pests or diseases, Agave snout weevil can be a problem. This plant is also known for its use in producing agave nectar and tequila, although these are typically derived from other Agave species. Due to its potential invasiveness, it is important to monitor its spread and remove volunteer seedlings outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0