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Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

Evergreen · Full Sun / Part Shade

Mature size: 1m–1.5m high × 1.5m–2m wide

  • Evergreen
  • Full Sun / Part Shade
  • Mature height1m–1.5m
  • Mature width1.5m–2m
  • Frost Sensitive
  • Good in pots
  • Flowers

Smooth spineless foliage provides strong architectural structure while remaining suitable for high-traffic landscape areas.

Regular price $230.00
Sale price $230.00 Regular price
Tax included. Shipping calculated at checkout.
Pot size
Available batches
Size: 30cm/33cm
Current height guide
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Pot size
30cm/33cm

Approximate only. Minimum height important? Confirm with us.

Height guide & disclaimer

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you must confirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

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Size / batchEachQuantity
30cm/33cmApprox. height: Enquire for current heights$230.00
45cm/45LApprox. height: Enquire for current heights$510.00
100LApprox. height: Enquire for current heights$780.00

Height guide & disclaimer

Height guide disclaimer: Height ranges are approximate only. As living products, plant heights naturally vary between individual plants, batches, and seasons. No guarantee is given that supplied plants will fall within the stated range. If minimum heights are required, you must confirm current batch heights with Evergreen Trees Direct prior to purchase. Variation in height is normal and is not grounds for return, refund, replacement, or compensation.

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    About Agave attenuata ‘Nova’

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ is a blue-leaved form of the Foxtail Agave, with broad, soft-edged leaves in powdery blue-green arranged in a tight symmetrical rosette. There are no marginal teeth and no terminal spine, which is unusual in the genus and much of the reason this plant is specified so often.

    It takes full sun in coastal and temperate gardens and prefers part shade where summers are fierce. The soil needs to drain, since it will rot with wet feet. Growth is 20 to 40 centimetres a year. Drought tolerance is good once established, but like all attenuata forms it is frost sensitive and marks below about minus 2 degrees Celsius.

    Expect close to 1 to 1.2 metres high and 1.2 to 1.5 metres wide, with a short trunk developing under older rosettes. It is a standard choice for poolside planting, courtyards, entry beds, raised planters and large pots, and it groups well in threes and fives. Being spineless, it is safe to plant beside a walkway.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    About Agave attenuata ‘Nova’

    What is Agave attenuata ‘Nova’?

    ‘Nova’ is a blue-leaved form of the Foxtail Agave, with broad, soft-edged leaves in powdery blue-green forming a tight symmetrical rosette. There are no marginal teeth and no terminal spine, which is unusual in the genus. Older plants develop a short curving trunk beneath the rosette. It is among the most widely specified succulents in Australian landscape work.

    How big does Agave ‘Nova’ grow?

    A mature rosette reaches about 1 to 1.2 metres high and 1.2 to 1.5 metres wide, with a short trunk lifting it slightly over time. Offsets appear around the base and can be left to form a clump or removed to keep a single clean specimen. Allow around 1.2 metres between plants in a group.

    Does Agave ‘Nova’ have spines?

    No. This is the spineless agave. The leaf margins are smooth and the tip ends in a soft point that will not injure anyone, which is why it is used so heavily around pools, along paths and in childcare and public landscapes. The sap can still irritate skin, so gloves are worth wearing when dividing plants.

    Is Agave ‘Nova’ frost tolerant?

    No. Like all Agave attenuata forms it is frost sensitive, with foliage marking at around minus 2 degrees Celsius and serious damage below that. It performs reliably in coastal and warm temperate gardens from Melbourne northwards, but in frost prone inland districts it needs a sheltered courtyard, a warm wall or a container that can be moved.

    Does it prefer sun or shade?

    Both work, within limits. Full sun in coastal and mild temperate gardens gives the densest rosette and the best blue. In hot dry inland positions, part shade through the afternoon avoids leaf burn. It also holds up better in shade than most agaves, which makes it useful under high canopy or in south facing courtyards.

    When does Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ flower?

    Mature plants flower in summer, sending up the long arching spike of greenish flowers that gives the Foxtail Agave its name. The flowering rosette dies afterwards, which is normal, and the offsets around it carry the planting on. Cut the spent spike and rosette out at the base once the display has finished.

    How do I care for Agave attenuata ‘Nova’?

    Plant in free-draining soil, water regularly through the first summer, then only in prolonged dry weather. A light application of controlled release fertiliser in spring keeps the foliage full. Remove lower leaves as they tire and divide offsets every few years. Shelter it from frost and from any ground that waterlogs.

    Key growing information
    Mature height1m to 1.5m
    Mature width1.5m to 2m
    PositionFull Sun / Part Shade
    Growth per year20cm to 40cm per year under suitable conditions
    FrostFrost Sensitive
    FoliageEvergreen (foliage year round)
    UsesFeature Tree · Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots · Underplanting
    Foliage

    Evergreen (foliage year round)

    Position
    • Full Sun
    • Part Shade
    Use
    • Feature Tree
    • Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots
    • Underplanting
    Mature height
    1m to 1.5m
    Mature width
    1.5m to 2m

    Planting Information

    How To Plant Your Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

    Site: Choose a well-drained position in full sun to part shade with room for the canopy to develop.

    Soil preparation: Enrich the planting area with quality compost and aged manure for a strong establishment phase.

    Hole: Dig twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.

    Planting: Position level with the surrounding soil, backfill gently, firm in, then water deeply to settle the roots.

    Recommended Planting Spacing For Your Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

    Feature tree: 3 to 4 metres apart to allow the full canopy and form to develop.

    Avenue planting: 3 metres apart for a uniform soft-textured avenue.

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year under suitable conditions.

    • Medium Growth Rate

    Long Term Care For Your Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

    Watering: Water deeply twice weekly through the first 12 months. Once established, reduce to once weekly in dry periods. Mulch helps maintain consistent moisture.

    Mulching: Apply a 5 to 7 centimetre layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it 5 centimetres clear of the trunk.

    Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Light tip prune in late winter to maintain shape if used as hedging or screening. For a clear trunk feature, remove lower branches as the tree grows.

    Fertilising: Apply a slow-release general-purpose fertiliser in early spring and again in autumn for steady growth and consistent foliage colour.

    Pest and disease: Hardy against most pests and diseases. Occasional scale or caterpillar inspection in warm humid conditions is all that's needed.

    Planting Your Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave in Different Soil

    Agave attenuata performs best in well-drained loam or sandy loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adaptable to a wide range of soils when drainage is improved with organic matter.

    Sandy soil: Free-draining and ideal. Mulch well to maintain consistent moisture.

    Clay soil: Improve drainage with gypsum and organic compost before planting.

    Loam: The preferred soil for steady root development and consistent growth.

    pH: Slightly acidic to neutral preferred. Mulch with composted leaf litter to maintain levels naturally.

    Uses in my Garden

    Uses in my Garden

    • Feature Tree
    • Plant in Pots (or) Suitable for Pots
    • Underplanting

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave works in an:

    • Contemporary / Architectural Garden – striking forms for bold design statements.
    • Coastal Garden – relaxed, seaside feel with hardy, textural plants.
    • Mediterranean Style Garden – timeless courtyard look with stone, pots, and bold greenery.

    Is Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave Evergreen or Deciduous?

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave is an Evergreen (foliage year round) Tree

    Mature Height & Width

    Mature Height: 1m to 1.5m

    Mature Width: 1.5m to 2m

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year under suitable conditions.

    Growth Rate of Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave is expected to grow 20cm to 40cm per year under suitable conditions.

    They are considered to have a:

    • Medium Growth Rate

    Frost Tolerance & Ideal Climate to plant Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave

    Is Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave frost tolerant?

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave is Frost Sensitive – May suffer damage from frost, best in frost-free or protected spots.

    Does Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave Flower?

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ produces a dramatic arching flower spike on mature plants, bearing clusters of greenish-yellow flowers above the foliage. Flowering typically occurs only after many years of growth and creates a striking architectural display, although the plant is primarily valued for its lush blue-green foliage and elegant spineless rosette form.

    Does Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave flower?

    • Yes - Flowers

    Flowering Period:

    • Summer

    Flower Type:

    • Not Applicable

    Flower Colour:

    Green

    Is Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave an Australian Native Tree?

    No

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave is Native to Cultivar selection of Agave attenuata, a species native to Central Mexico.

    What is the Wildlife Value of Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave ?

    Its mature flower spikes provide a valuable nectar source for bees and other beneficial pollinators when in bloom, supporting biodiversity within dry-climate and ornamental landscapes. The broad foliage rosettes can also provide sheltered microhabitats for beneficial insects within garden settings.

    How much Sunlight does Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave need?

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave will thrive best in:

    • Full Sun
    • Part Shade

    Preferred Soil?

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ performs best in free-draining sandy or loam soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. It will also tolerate poorer soils and coastal conditions provided drainage remains excellent. Avoid heavy clay or persistently wet conditions, as excess moisture can lead to root and crown problems. Allow the soil to dry thoroughly between watering once established to maintain healthy growth, foliage quality and long-term vigour.

    Is Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave Drought Tolerant?

    Is Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ – Nova Foxtail Agave Drought tolerant?

    As a young plant it benefits from occasional watering to establish a healthy root system, particularly during extended dry periods. Once established, Nova Agave shows excellent drought tolerance and performs reliably through prolonged dry conditions with minimal supplementary watering.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Does Nova Foxtail Agave have sharp spines?
    A: No, it features smooth foliage without the prominent sharp terminal spines found on many Agave species.

    Q: Is it suitable near pools and pathways?
    A: Yes, its spineless foliage makes it an excellent choice for areas where people regularly pass by.

    Q: Is it drought tolerant?
    A: Yes, once established it performs exceptionally well with minimal supplemental watering.

    Q: Can it be grown in containers?
    A: Yes, it is highly suited to large decorative pots and courtyard displays.

    Compare sizes side by side

    30cm/33cm

    Enquire for current heights

    45cm/45L

    Enquire for current heights

    100L

    Enquire for current heights

    Heights are approximate and vary between individual trees.

    Agave attenuata ‘Nova’ is loved for its Smooth spineless foliage provides strong architectural structure while remaining suitable for high-traffic landscape areas.

    We take pride in supplying A+ grade advanced trees. When stock at our farm is not yet ready, we work with our trusted trade suppliers to source the best available trees for your garden.

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