Agave gentryi aka Jaws

Agave gentryi is an evergreen succulent in the asparagus family. Its common names include Gentry's century plant and hardy agave. It comes from Mexico, though sources differ on its range. Kew lists Nuevo León and Querétaro. LLIFLE also records Coahuila and Tamaulipas in the Sierra Madre. It grows beneath pine and oak on high mountain slopes. These sites lie at 7,550–10,830 feet [2,300–3,300 metres].

The plant forms a dense rosette of stiff, broad leaves. RHS gives a garden height and spread of 4.9–8.2 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Its description puts mature height nearer 6.6 feet [2 metres]. The leaves curve inward and have a glossy surface. Their colour ranges from grey-green to deep apple green. Large teeth line the edges, and red-brown spines tip the leaves. Older leaves can show marks left by younger, packed leaves. RHS describes slow growth, with maturity taking 10–20 years. LLIFLE reports faster growth, so the sources differ on pace.

Mature plants may send up a tall, branched flower stalk. The flowers have a yellow-green colour. The flowering rosette then dies, according to RHS. New shoots at its base can take its place. LLIFLE says these offsets are rare. Seeds offer another means of raising new plants. RHS suggests removing offsets in spring or autumn. The rosette's bold shape suits pots, gravel beds and rock gardens. It also fits courtyards, coastal gardens and greenhouse displays.

Give this agave full sun and soil that drains well. Light shade is also suitable, according to LLIFLE. RHS lists sandy or loamy soil with acid or neutral pH. Water well during active growth, then keep it nearly dry in winter. Use pots with drainage holes and cactus compost under glass. Hardiness reports differ sharply. RHS rates it H2 and recommends winter shelter under glass. LLIFLE lists USDA zones 6b–10 and describes much greater cold tolerance. Its cold claims do not match the cautious RHS guidance.

Scale insects may attack this plant, though RHS reports few disease problems. LLIFLE records skipper caterpillars that bore into and feed on it. The plant needs no routine pruning. Its sap can irritate human skin, so wear gloves when handling it. RHS also warns that eating it can harm cats and dogs. The supplied sources give no supported food use.