I am somewhat in awe of agaves. They are beautiful, striking and somewhat lethal, given their spikes, sharp tips and potentially toxic sap. Despite their seemingly hostile appearance they are fairly good-natured plants - not difficult to care for and tolerant of cool temperatures. Though they prefer hot, full sun, agaves will tolerate some shade.

P. Allen Smith uses agaves to great dramatic affect.

Potted in large, dark containers, they punctuate the landscape and add a modern, sculptural sensibility as well as vertical interest.