Plant Calculator
Enter the approximate length and width of the area you will be planting and click 'Calculate' to determine how many Agave victoriae-reginae you will need.
*Correct and successful spacing is complex and depends on project conditions.
Agave victoriae-reginae
Agave, Queen Victoria
- Compact form
- Slow growth
- Striking form & color
- Category: Trees & Shrubs
- Hardiness Zone: 8b
- Height: 12-18 in
- Spread: 12-18 in
- Spacing: 12-24 in
Queen’s Agave, is an ornamental prized for its compact size and striking symmetry. Native to northern Mexico, it performs well in Texas landscapes where excellent drainage and full sun to partial shade are available. This agave is not considered toxic but does have a sharp terminal spine, so care is advised when placing near walkways or yards with pets and children. It is very deer-resistant and thrives in alkaline soils, making it especially well-suited for Central and West Texas, though it can also perform in other regions with proper drainage.
In the landscape, Queen’s Agave is valued for its tight, geometric rosette of dark green leaves marked with distinct white lines along the edges. Unlike many larger agaves, it remains compact, typically reaching only 12 to 18 inches tall and wide, making it ideal for smaller spaces, containers, rock gardens, and accent plantings. Spacing of 1 to 2 feet is sufficient when planting in groups. While extremely slow growing, this is part of its appeal—it maintains its refined shape for many years with little need for maintenance.
Queen’s Agave is monocarpic and will eventually send up a flower spike at maturity, though this can take decades due to its slow growth rate. The bloom stalk can reach 10 to 15 feet tall and produces creamy white flowers that attract pollinators. After flowering, the main plant dies, but it may produce offsets, though not as reliably as other agave species.
In colder parts of Texas, Queen’s Agave benefits from protection during hard freezes, especially in areas that experience prolonged cold or wet winter conditions. It is more cold-hardy than many agaves but can still suffer damage if temperatures drop into the low teens, particularly in poorly drained soils. Planting in raised beds, containers, or areas with excellent drainage will greatly improve its long-term success. In warmer regions, it requires little winter care and remains an excellent low-water, architectural choice.