Attenuata agaves have soft, spineless foliage. This one has blue-gray, recurving leaves in large rosettes. When first set, the plant will be flush with the ground, but will grow so that the rosettes are on top of bare, woody-looking stems. The farther inland you garden, the more shade these plants will need. 'Boutin Blue' is a selection named after Huntington Botanical Garden botanist Fred Boutin. Its leaves are a darker blue than other selections. 

Growing conditions

Light: Full coastal sun to shade, inland partial to full shade

Hardiness: 30 degrees (very frost-tender)

Maintenance considerations

As with all succulents, is drought-tolerant, but may need supplemental water during dry times. If you wish, you can cut the rosette off, allow it to callus, and re-set it. 

Companion plants

It's hard to find a plant that doesn't match Agave attenuata 'Nova'. Pair with echeverias, senecio, echeveria, ornamental grasses, and drought-tolerant perennials such as agastache.