Agave americana
Century Plant
Description
This agave 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. It is prone to agave snout weevil which will eat the roots and leaves. 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. Water once a month during the summer.
Plant Type
Succulent
Height Range
3-6'
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
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
Allergenic, Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish
Accenting Features
Specimen, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Roadside, Walls / Fences, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.