The plant grows three feet tall and four to six feet wide, and is recognized by its satin-like, darker green to yellowish-green foliage that forms a rosette. Brownish-red teeth run along the edges of the leaves. The younger leaves have a distinctive, smooth looking sheen. At the end of its life, anywhere between five and eighteen years, this agave develops a stalk about fifteen to twenty-two feet tall with greenish-yellow flowers.  Use it as a specimen, bold accent plant in tropical settings, in large containers, or with other agave species for its interesting appearance. The plant is native to the rocky slopes in oak and pine wooded areas of Chihuahua and northern Sinaloa, Mexico, where it can be found growing between 3,000 and 6,000 feet.

It likes filtered sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Avoid planting it in areas with reflected heat; and keep this plant away from pedestrian traffic and sidewalks due to its sharp spines. It is a fast grower and is drought-resistant, but likes supplemental water during the warm months. It is hardy to the mid to low twenties Fahrenheit. Plant it in a frost protected area to avoid foliage damage.