Agave Sharkskin

Agave 'Sharkskin' got its nickname for its color and texture.

It has a soft, muted gray-green color and waxy texture that begs to be touched.

But be careful when handling the plant! It has very sharp terminal spines that can easily puncture the skin.

Botanical name: Agave 'Sharkskin', Agave x ferdinandi-regis x scabra

Other names: Sharkskin agave

Appearance
Landscaping tips
Origin
Care
Problems
Propagation
FAQ
Summary

Agave Sharkskin Appearance

Agave sharkskin is a medium-sized agave that grows to 2-3 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

Thick succulent leaves that are slightly curved and arching give the agave a unique appearance. The leaves have a waxy texture and a gray-green color. They are very sharp at the very end.

Towards the end of its life, the agave will grow a tall flower spike that can reach 10-20 feet tall. The spike will be covered in small, yellow-green flowers.

Slow-growing, with leaves that grow in a spiral pattern around the center stem, gradually getting larger and longer over time.

Agave Sharkskin Landscaping Tips

Looks elegant and tidy in pots. We recommend unglazed terracotta pots to prevent root rot.

A good candidate for smaller desert-themed gardens.

Terminal spines are very sharp. Use caution when handling and planting in areas with frequent traffic.

Agave sharkskin grows offsets from the base of the plant, allowing for easy propagation.

Agave Sharkskin Origin

Agave sharkskin is a hybrid from Agave ferdinandi-regis and Agave scabra

Agave Sharkskin Care

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 25 degrees for a short period of time.

Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.

Sun: Full sun

Agave Sharkskin Problems

Pests: Agave sharkskin has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially at the bottom of the agave)

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring

Agave Sharkskin Propagation

The main agave will grow offsets or pups from the lower central stem throughout its lifespan.

FAQ

How much does agave sharkskin cost?

At our nursery, Agave sharkskin costs $15 for a 1-gallon container, $55 for a 5-gallon container, $120 for a 15-gallon container, $250 for a 24-inch box, and $350 for a 30-inch box.

Prices are subject to change. Please get in touch with us for the most up-to-date pricing information. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is Agave sharkskin prickly?

No, the leaves taper at the ends but typically are not prickly. Some may also grow small spines alongside the leaves. However, this is not common.

How big does Agave sharkskin get?