Century Plant
Agave americana
NEMBA: Category 3
English: Century Plant, Agave, Agave Cactus, American Agave, Spreading Century Plant
A distinctive succulent shrub, this species forms a basal rosette of thick, heavy leaves reaching up to 2 meters high, with distinctive suckers emerging from its base. Its flowering pole can extend 5-9 meters high.
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Origin:
Mexico and the southern United States
Overall Appearance:
Agave americana is a large, succulent perennial with a rosette of thick, fleshy leaves. It can reach heights of up to 3 meters and a spread of 6 meters.
Leaves:
Leaves are long, sword-shaped, and typically grey-green with a waxy coating. The margins are armed with sharp, hooked spines.
Flowers:
Agave americana is monocarpic, meaning it flowers only once in its lifetime, usually after 10-30 years. The flower stalk is tall and branched, bearing numerous yellow flowers.
Flowering Season:
Flowering occurs in late spring or early summer.
Fruits:
After flowering, the plant produces numerous dry capsules containing small, black seeds.
Seeds:
Small, black seeds that are dispersed by wind and animals.
Soil Type:
Adaptable to a wide range of well-drained soils, including sandy and rocky soils.
Aspect:
Prefers full sun.
Edibility:
While some Agave species are used to produce beverages like tequila, Agave americana is not typically consumed.
Toxicity:
The sap and spines of Agave americana can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Uses:
Primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant for its dramatic appearance.
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Common name
Scientific Name
Plant type:
Succulent
Plant family:
Asparagaceae (Latin plant name) - Order: Asparagales