Agave americana
Century Plant
Description
This plant is fast growing to about 6'-10' tall and 8'-13' wide. Wide gray leaves have stiff terminal spines and recurved teeth on margins. It prefers full sun and well-drained situations. After blooming, which could take several years, it will die but will send up new pups from around the base. Some people are allergic to the sap. Removal is difficult if unwanted.
Plant Type
Succulent
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Grey Green, Grey
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate, Slow
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Ranch, Seascape, Spanish
Accenting Features
Specimen, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
n/a
Location Uses
Shrub Border, Foundation, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Mulching around plants helps retain water and improves the soil.