Species American century plant
Large succulent plant with green leaves and a thorn on the tip.

American century plant

Agave americana

The American century plant, or Agave americana, is an amazing, low maintenance succulent that can stay green for years. It is native to the deserts of the southwestern US, which makes it the perfect pick for a drought-tolerant garden. This tough plant can reach heights of up to 23 feet, making it a great choice for a show-stopping hedge. Furthermore, its stunning blue leaves are even edged with yellow and provide beautiful contrast in any garden. As a bonus, it will reward gardeners biannually with beautiful white and yellow blooms.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Greenish yellow Flowers In Summer

Sun:

full sun,sheltered

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

green,red,yellow,purple,orange Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

American Century Plant should be watered deeply 1-2 times per month during the growing season and about once every 1-2 months in the winter. How much water depends on the size of your individual plant, as well as the size and type of pot it is in. You should water the plant until water runs out of the drainage holes, but never leave the plant sitting in water. For established plants, you can water more sparingly during times of extreme heat. For younger and more delicate plants, you can increase the watering frequency to every week or 2.

sunlight

American century plant requires full sun, which means it should receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. The sun is most intense between the hours of 10am and 6pm, so midday and especially afternoon sun is best for this species. Because of this, it is best to place the American century plant in the sunniest point of the yard or garden so it can receive the fullest and most direct amount of sunlight possible.

pruning

Prune American century plant in the late winter or early spring. Pruning helps to keep it a manageable size. Remove any dead leaves, damaged or misshapen leaves, and any leaves that look unhealthy. Cut off flower stalks to prevent self-seeding. In general, cut them off at the base of the plant or as close to the heart of the plant as possible. Prune as much as desired, but keep in mind that it is possible to cut too much and affect the aesthetic or health of the plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Agave americana typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Agave americana typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Starts Flowering

Agave americana typically starts flowering in late spring or early summer, usually between May and July.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Agave americana typically begins in late summer or early fall, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map