When you think of agave plants, it’s easy to imagine them thriving in vast deserts under the scorching sun, surrounded by cacti. But here’s the thing: agave plants can be just as happy indoors—and they look amazing while doing it! With their striking geometric shapes and low-maintenance nature, these hardy succulents are becoming increasingly popular among indoor plant enthusiasts, myself included.
I first stumbled across agave plants during a trip to a botanical garden. I was captivated by their bold, architectural leaves and immediately wondered if I could bring one into my home. Fast forward a few years, and I now have several varieties of agave plants thriving indoors. Whether you’re new to agave plants or just looking to expand your collection, here’s a list of the 10 best agave varieties to grow inside.
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1. Agave Attenuata (Fox Tail Agave)
I have to start with one of my personal favorites—Agave Attenuata, also known as the Fox Tail Agave. This plant has soft, spineless leaves, making it a perfect choice for indoor settings where you don’t want to deal with sharp spines. Its leaves form a rosette of pale green to blue-green, giving it a soft, almost cloud-like appearance that feels at home in any modern living room.
One thing I love about this plant is how it adapts to indoor life. While it prefers bright, indirect light, I’ve found that it’s quite tolerant of lower light levels too, making it ideal for apartments or homes without an abundance of natural light.
2. Agave Parryi (Artichoke Agave)
If you’re into plants that have a sculptural, almost artistic look, Agave Parryi is a winner. Often called the Artichoke Agave due to its compact, rounded rosette that resembles—well, an artichoke—this plant is stunning in any indoor setting. Its blue-gray leaves with sharp, contrasting edges create a striking visual effect, especially in minimalist décor.
Be mindful, though—Agave Parryi does have sharp spines at the tips of its leaves, so you may want to place it out of reach of curious pets or children.
3. Agave Victoriae-Reginae (Queen Victoria Agave)
Agave plants are known for their dramatic, symmetrical forms, and Agave Victoriae-Reginae, or the Queen Victoria Agave, is a showstopper. I have one perched on a windowsill, and it always grabs the attention of visitors.
This compact species features dark green leaves with distinct white markings, and its tightly packed rosette makes it perfect for smaller spaces. It also requires very little care—just give it some sunlight and an occasional drink, and it’ll thrive.
4. Agave Americana (Century Plant)
This agave plant is somewhat of a legend in the succulent world. The Agave Americana, commonly known as the Century Plant, is famous for its size and striking form. While it can grow quite large in its natural habitat, dwarf varieties are perfect for indoor growth.
I love how dramatic this plant looks in a decorative pot—it’s a statement piece all on its own. Just be cautious about its spines; this plant has sharp edges, so place it somewhere where it won’t be accidentally bumped into.
5. Agave Desmettiana (Smooth Agave)
If you’re after an agave with a sleek, smooth appearance, Agave Desmettiana is your best bet. This plant has glossy, green leaves with golden edges, adding a little bit of shine to your indoor garden. Plus, its leaves are smooth, with soft spines, making it much safer to handle than some of its spikier relatives.
I’ve found that this agave does particularly well in brighter spots, so if you have a sunny corner in your home, this is the plant for you.
6. Agave Potatorum (Butterfly Agave)
One of the most visually striking indoor agaves, the Agave Potatorum, also known as the Butterfly Agave, features wavy, blue-green leaves with red tips. The contrast between the soft tones and the vivid red edges is just mesmerizing.
I have mine near my work desk, and it’s such a conversation starter! Its compact size also makes it easy to fit into any nook or shelf, while its sculptural look adds an artistic flair to any indoor space.
7. Agave Colorata (Mescal Ceniza)
If you’re after something with a bit more of an icy-blue hue, the Agave Colorata is perfect. Known as Mescal Ceniza, this plant is small enough to grow in a decorative pot indoors but still gives off that quintessential desert vibe with its broad, blue-gray leaves and striking form.
While this species is more slow-growing, it’s incredibly low-maintenance and looks great next to other succulents. Give it plenty of sunlight, and watch its color deepen to a silvery blue.
8. Agave Bracteosa (Squid Agave)
The name alone is enough to intrigue anyone. Agave Bracteosa, also called the Squid Agave, has long, curling leaves that resemble tentacles. Unlike many other agave plants, this species has no spines, making it safe to place anywhere indoors.
I’ve used it to add a quirky, playful vibe to my living space. Its unusual, twisting leaves are guaranteed to spark curiosity among plant lovers and visitors alike.
9. Agave Isthmensis (Dwarf Butterfly Agave)
If you love the look of the Butterfly Agave but need something even smaller, consider the Agave Isthmensis. This is a dwarf variety that stays compact but still offers the same stunning appearance with wavy blue-green leaves and striking, contrasting edges.
I find this plant to be perfect for small apartments or even desks, where you want something compact yet visually impactful. It’s like having a little piece of the desert right next to you.
10. Agave Tequilana (Blue Agave)
Yes, this is the plant used to make tequila, but it’s also a gorgeous indoor plant in its own right! Agave Tequilana, commonly known as Blue Agave, has striking, sword-like blue-gray leaves that give any space a clean, modern look.
I’ve found it to be surprisingly low-maintenance. Just place it in a bright, sunny spot and water sparingly. Even though it’s used for tequila production, it can stay relatively small when kept in a pot indoors, adding a touch of desert sophistication to your home.
My Experience with Agave Plants Indoors
As someone who’s been growing agave plants indoors for several years, I can confidently say they’re some of the easiest plants to care for—especially for beginners. I love how they bring a touch of the desert into my home, creating an earthy, minimalist vibe. Plus, their slow growth and low water needs make them ideal for indoor life.
One thing I’ve learned, though, is that agave plants love bright light. While many of these species can tolerate lower light conditions, placing them in a sunny spot will help them thrive and maintain their beautiful colors. And remember, they prefer to dry out between waterings—overwatering is the number one cause of trouble with agaves!
Final Thoughts
Agave plants are more than just desert dwellers; they’re the perfect addition to any indoor garden. Their unique shapes, colors, and low-maintenance care make them stand out in any space. Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just starting out, these 10 agave plants will add a touch of the wild, arid desert to your home.