The incurving, triangular, gray leaves have marginal teeth with red to pink spines. It can reach a size of 2 ft. tall and 3 ft. wide. Between 10-30 years a huge (to 20 ft. tall), spectacular flower stalk with deep reds and yellows will bloom out of each rosette. Quite cold hardy -20° F, and prefers full sun exposures at higher elevations.