I dont _think_ its an agave. It looks a lot like a Hectia (a terrestrial bromeliad) to me.

I, too, think this is a type of Hechtia. Sorry, I do not know which species. Beautiful plant!

Wow, I feel like I'm in a whole new world.

I've never seen anything like that before! It sure is gorgeous! How that red just inches up those leaves is fascinating. I'm glad to see I'm not the only one who sets little figurines in pots!

You may wish to read up on these as Agaves are succulents & Bromeliads are tropicals. Am guessing they'd want quite different care, likely different mixes too.

Very handsome plant, lucky you!

Many Hechtias are dryland plants and take similar care as Agaves, nolinas and yuccas. There are hectias that are hardy to Texas, or the Big Bend and the Rio Grande Valley. I am not sure about this one but I think there is a friend in San Antonio Texas that grows on similar. I think his was a bromeliad....not sure. Watchout for those leaves. They took a hunk out of him.

wanton you are right about the leaves. The thorns go this way and that way up and down the sides. When you try to pull out you are hooked again. I built the 'Agave Welcome Center' around this plant as it is dangerous. I am adding to it again this weekend.

pirate girl this plant was growing like a weed around my MILs house. I took one and treat it like an agave with gritty mix. It has been growing like crazy.

Thank you both for the ID. I did not have a clue on what it truly was. And I do add decoration to my plants. I am still using my son's old toys and he is now 28. Have a great grow day, Paula
{{gwi:542025}}

Coincidentally, the CSSA just posted a few photos of the Huntington Desert Gardens on FB, one of which was
Bromelia balanse. Looks a lot like the one you have Lovetogrow. I'm terrible at the cut and paste photo thing, so I attached a link. Could this be your plant?

Here is a link that might be useful: CSSA photo of Bromelia balense

Arid it look like the same plant. If not a close cousin. Thank you for showing me this. Paula

Just added another 12" x 8' to the Agave Welcome Center. Moved a few around and it still looks like I have no room. lol