The blue agave plant is the heart of tequila. The juices of this plant are distilled to make the widely loved beverage. The Blue Agave thrives in full exposure to the sun, but is extremely sensitive to temperatures below freezing. This prickly plant can grow up to 5 ft. tall by 5 ft. wide. and live anywhere from 8-14 years. Although commonly mistaken for a cactus, it is actually a member of the lily family.