Florida agave and false sisal are common names for the plant pictured above, Agave decipiens. Endemic to Florida, this long-lived perennial plant is associated with coastal areas, especially shell middens. Salt and drought-tolerant, this plant reportedly grows to be up to 8′ tall and wide.
The sharp pointed tips and fiber of another member of the Agave family (Agavaceae), Spanish bayonet (Yucca aloifolia), are thought to have been used by aboriginal peoples …
Florida agave may have been used in a similar way. It does not grow at the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area and the photograph at the top of the post was taken at the Brevard Barrier Island Sanctuary and Education Center on 3/38/2015 by Karen Schuster.
A related plant, Adamn’s needle (Yucca filamentosa), grows in the scrub and is shown below at the North Sebastian Conservation Area. Note the distinguishing filaments…
Enjoy the Oslo Riverfront Conservation Area 