Octopus Agave (Agave vilmoriniana): The Soft, Recurving Agave with No Teeth

Octopus Agave is one of the most unique agaves. Its long, narrow, flexible leaves arch and recurve gracefully, resembling the tentacles of an octopus. Remarkably, the leaf margins are entirely smooth—no teeth—and the terminal spine is soft and flexible. It forms a solitary rosette 3–4 feet tall and wide. At maturity, it produces a tall flower spike with bulbils (plantlets) instead of seeds. Native to Sonora, Mexico, it’s a user-friendly, sculptural agave.

Taxonomic Profile

Growing Conditions

Full sun to light shade. Well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant. Hardy to 25°F (-4°C). The smooth leaves make it safe for high-traffic areas. Bulbils on the flower stalk root easily. Excellent in pots and as a specimen.