Greg Starr is widely acknowledged as an expert on agaves. An astute observer of agaves in the wild, he also has broad experience with their performance in cultivation. In vivid detail he profiles 75 species, cultivars, and hybrids best suited to gardens and landscapes. Each entry includes field notes as well as a detailed description of the plant, along with its cultural requirements, including hardiness, sun exposure, water needs, soil requirements and methods of propagation. Because agaves can change dramatically as they age, photos show species from youth to maturity, a unique feature of this book. Distribution, taxonomy, horticultural history and essentials of cultivation complete the in-depth treatment. As useful to specialists as to enthusiasts who are just beginning to explore the dazzlingly diverse world of agaves, this authoritative guide is sure to spur the growing popularity of these amazing plants. Succulents have become very popular in recent years due to their drought-tolerance and unique aesthetic qualities They make first-rate container plants for areas that are too cold for in-ground culture