This sinister looking agave, known as the black spine agave, is a member of the Asparagaceae family and a native of Southern Mexico. Its pale green leaves, protruding from a tight rosette, end in very sharp, 2 inch long black spines . The straight leaf margins with contrasting brown teeth make the leaf look a little like a serrated dagger. The plant has purplish-green flowers, but takes at least 15 years to bloom. As with many Agave, the sap from this plant can cause severe and painful skin irritation. With low water needs and a hardiness down to 20-25 degrees F, this plant can make a distinctive and tough succulent accent to any garden.