Introducing the Variegated Fox tail Agave, also known as the Agave Ray of Light, a variegated variety of the Agave attenuate. Native to Mexico, the laboratory variegated Agave attenuata selections have several other common names, including Agave attenuata ray of light, Variegated Swan's Neck Agave, and Variegated Lion's Tail Agave.

Agave ray of light have elongated, soft, pale green leaves with variegated foliage that is beautifully contrasted with white stripes. This evergreen perennial variegated foxtail agave can grow up to 5 feet tall with a thick stem and an 8-foot-wide rosette. 

The flowers of the agave ray of light emerge on tall, slender stalks that can reach up to 10 feet in height. The blooms are typically a pale greenish-yellow color and have a unique tubular shape. The flowering period occurs during the spring and summer months, attracting pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. Depending on the growth conditions, foxtail agave typically blooms once during its lifetime, which can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years.

When it comes to propagation, the agave ray of light can be propagated through offsets or pups. These are small plantlets that grow at the base of the mother plant. They can be carefully separated and replanted to establish mature plants. This slow-growing white cultivar of agaves is perfect for those who love watching their plants develop over time.

Additionally, the Agave ray of light is safe for both humans and pets. Agave attenuata 'Ray of Light', a variegated foxtail agave, is an excellent choice because of its unarmed nature, making it suitable for display in restricted spaces.

Watering Needs 

Like succulents, the Agave ray of light is adapted to survive in harsh, hot environments, storing water in its foliage and trunk for months at a time. Therefore, don't overwater them, and ensure that the soil is dry or slightly damp when caring for your variegated foxtail agave.

During the summer, in the growing season, you should only water them every 2-3 weeks and maintain a relative humidity of 40–50% with an indoor humidity of around 40%.

In winter, you may only need to water your Agave attenuata ray of light once a month or less.  On the other hand, if there is a severe drought, it can lead to discoloration and browning of stems, as well as stunted growth. You should also take care not to overwater, or else you may get root rot and a fungal infection.

Light Requirements 

When grown indoors, place your Agave ray of light fox tail agave in the sunniest place in your house. This variegated foxtail succulent may benefit from shade in consistently hot climates. It is ideal to grow your variegated Agave attenuata succulent in a west- or south-facing window.

If you are growing your variegated foxtail agave plant outdoors, it can thrive in full sun to partial shade with about 5–6 hours of direct light daily. Too little light can cause discoloration and an abnormal appearance, as well as limit its growth.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The Agave ray of light favors very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting your variegated foxtail agave in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your variegated foxtail agave succulent thrive.

When it comes to fertilizing your Agave ray of light, it only needs a small amount of fertilizer applied once a year in the spring. Succulents prefer a fertilizer with lower doses of NPK with a maximum ratio of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

A little goes a long way!

Hardiness Zones & More 

Typically grown in arid or semi-arid regions, the variegated foxtail agave plant thrives indoors in warm, dry surroundings. It performs well in temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and can't tolerate temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can withstand temperatures below that, but only for short periods of time.

If you live in USDA regions 9 to 11, you can also grow your Agave ray of light succulents outdoors year-round, but they are not cold- or frost-tolerant, so you should plant your variegated Agave attenuata indoors or put them in a pot and move them indoors during the winter if you live outside of these regions.

Remember, keep your Agave ray of light plant away from cold, drafty windows and air vents if you are growing it indoors in a cold climate.

The Bottom Line

Overall, the Agave attenuata ray of light (variegated foxtail agave) is a striking succulent plant that brings a touch of elegance to coastal gardens or indoor settings. With its variegated leaves and graceful form, it's sure to be a standout feature. Remember to provide your Agave ray of light with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight, and be mindful of watering to keep it thriving. This low-maintenance variegated foxtail agave (Agave ray of light) will reward you with its beauty and add a touch of natural charm to your space.