Why More Homeowners Are Replacing Real Agaves With Steel

Agaves have long been a desert landscaping staple—iconic, sculptural, and beautifully low-water. But in recent years, a new trend has taken root across the Southwest: homeowners are swapping live agaves for artificial ones made of steel.

At first glance, the switch might seem surprising. But when you compare the long-term benefits in style, maintenance, and cost, it’s easy to see why artificial agave landscaping is becoming the smart (and stunning) choice for modern outdoor spaces.

1. Style That Stays Perfect, Year-Round

Real agaves are undeniably beautiful, but they’re also unpredictable. With exposure to scorching heat, cold snaps, and pests, even a healthy plant can suddenly droop, spot, or die back. Steel agaves, on the other hand, offer flawless form from day one—and stay that way for years to come.

At Desert Steel, each of our agave sculptures is crafted to mirror the real thing in both shape and color, from the soft curve of a Whale’s Tongue Agave to the bold, upright silhouette of an Octopus Agave. The result? A high-impact design element that never fades, yellows, or wilts. It’s the kind of architectural beauty that looks freshly planted every day of the year.

2. Zero Maintenance (Really.)

Live agaves may be low-water, but they’re not no-maintenance. Between trimming dead leaves, checking for rot, and protecting them from freezes, they still require time and attention—especially in a climate that swings between extremes.

Artificial agaves eliminate that upkeep entirely. No watering. No pest control. No frost cloths. No gloves required (because, let’s be honest, wrestling with a spiky agave isn’t for the faint of heart).

If you’re a busy homeowner, seasonal resident, or simply want to enjoy a beautiful yard without the work, steel agaves let you set it and forget it—while still impressing the neighbors.

3. Smart Investment Over Time

A live agave may cost less upfront, but when you factor in care, replacement costs, and water usage over the years, steel starts to look like the savvy choice.

Let’s say you plant a mid-sized agave for $75–$150. Add mulch, frost cloth, pest treatments, and occasional replacements when one freezes or rots—and suddenly that "low-maintenance" plant isn’t so budget-friendly. Meanwhile, a Desert Steel agave may cost slightly more initially, but lasts for years (and through any weather) without any ongoing expenses.

For homeowners designing their forever yard or investing in a vacation property, artificial agave landscaping delivers both beauty and long-term value.

Elevate Your Landscape With Confidence

Whether you're creating a xeriscape from scratch or updating tired beds, artificial agaves give you the best of both worlds: natural desert beauty with zero stress. They're bold, durable, and always in season.

Ready to make the switch? Explore Desert Steel’s handcrafted agaves and see how a little steel can go a long way in your landscape.

Discover Our Metal Yard Art & Landscaping Solutions

If you’re looking to upgrade your landscaping, we have the perfect collection of metal yard art for your space. From large garden sculptures to smaller pieces, such as metal succulents, barrel cacti, palm trees and more. These make a beautiful feature to your front yard and require ZERO watering or maintenance. Contact us today and we can help advise you on the best solutions for your yard. We also offer a FREE design service for your landscaping needs, so let us know if this is something you’d be interested in.