Agave americana

Century Plant

Accent

This striking succulent grows very large (up to six feet) and then dies after blooming. The grayish, blue-green leaf blades reach three to five feet in length. There is a variegated version as well.

Temperature

Hardy to 20F

Water requirements

Occasional water for good growth but do not overwater.

Sun

Full or reflected sun. Accepts part shade.

Soil

Tolerates most types except waterlogged.

Maintenance

Little or none unless you wish to groom.

Disadvantages

Sharp tips need to be cut in high-traffic area. Lower leaves may become dry or untidy looking and need to be removed. Susceptible to snout weevils. Offsets can become invasive and a nuisance, but they can be detached and rooted. Can become too large for allotted space, so plan accordingly. Removing dead plant after bloom is a big job. Spongy or wrinkled leaves means a water or bug problem. Leaves should be firm.

Bloom

After about 33 years (not 100), produces an extremely tall (up to 30 feet) bloom stalk that can grow up to 14 inches a day. This stalk is often left standing after it dies. The white blooms are pollinated by bats.

Uses

Native people used the plant for its fiber. Can be grown in a container, but will not become as large. Rows can be used as a barrier. Specimen plant. Banks for erosion control.

Origin

Native of the Sonoran Desert. Member of the Agavaceae family.

Themes

Native, Desert Grassland, Desert, Desert Transitional, Subtropical.

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