From what I've seen of Agave 'Joe Hoak' (look for the thread with 'J' in their plant names - Geoff's got a prize-winning specimen), that's not it - it's possibly as you say.

I agree, it's not 'Joe Hoak'. It looks like a desmettiana variegata that needs more light.

Well I can't speak to Agaves, but I think you're right about the Haworthia. From what I recall H reinwardtii has a columnar, stacked sort of growth habit w/ short, stubby, keeled leaves. I've had a couple at some point. Yours are nice plants.

I just don't get the right feel for A. desmettiana from that one. The foliage has a distinctive shape, out and then up.

the variegated version in my yard before it bloomed
{{gwi:558480}}

and here's my Joe a couple of years ago, bigger now.

{{gwi:558481}}

However, as paracelsus says, perhaps it is because it needs more light.

Thanks for the ID'ing! It's definitely possible that the Agave needs more light. A question, though: When I compare A. desmettiana variegata to 'Joe Hoak', what my (inexperienced) eye spots right off is the color pattern. 'Joe Hoak' has green along the outer edge of the leaves, with varying amounts of yellow/pale green in the center, mostly yellow; while desmettiana variegata has yellow edges, and is predominantly medium to dark green in the center. What led me to guess at 'Joe Hoak' for mine is the green along the leaf edges and the general paleness of the green in the center. From your reactions, I wonder if there's something else I'm missing. You mention the growth shape; is that the key factor? What should I be looking for as the distinguishing characteristics?

Pirate_girl - Thanks for the Haworthia confirmation; I was pretty sure on that one but it's still nice to get a second opinion. :)