Agave Americana
A versatile crop used for beverage, medicine, and fiber, Agave Americana is now also widely enjoyed as an ornamental plant.
One reason for its popularity is that it makes quite the statement with its height capable of being taller than the average adult as well as its dramatic rosette shape.
Another reason is that it's a very forgiving plant in warm climates, having a high tolerance for drought, scorching heat, strong winds, poor soil, and salt in coastal areas.
Botanical name: Agave americana
Other names: American century plant, century plant, maguey
Agave Americana for sale at our nursery in a 25-gallon container
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Agave Americana Appearance
Muted green to bluish-green leaves that are 3+ feet long-form a rosette shape. Flat, fleshy leaves have sharp tips at the ends and serrated edges.
As one of the largest agaves, Agave Americana's height when mature is 3-8 feet and width is 3-10 feet.
Short, woody stem at the base of mature plants, which produces offsets.
Yellow flowers bloom from a huge, 15+ feet long flower stalk that appears at the end of the agave's life. The typical lifespan of Agave americana is 10-30 years. The nickname "century plant" was given because it takes such a long time for the agave to bloom.
Green fruits that turn dark as they ripen, containing small black seeds.
Agave Americana Landscaping Tips
Agave americana is versatile in different landscape styles, including coastal, mid-century modern, drought-tolerant, Southwestern, and Mediterranean.
We like seeing this agave planted with other types of plants to create a nice contrast with its very specific shape.
Some people place Agave americana in settings as they would for a sculpture. For a more dramatic focal point, plant among short ground cover, gravel, or rocks. Also makes a good container plant.
Older leaves on the agave often curve downwards, giving the plant a softer and whimsical look.
Agave Americana Origin
Agave americana is native to dry areas in northeastern Mexico and southern Texas.
Various agaves and Agave americana ‘Marginata’ at our nursery.
Agave Americana Care
This agave has been naturalized in many parts of the world due to its tolerance for difficult conditions such as poor soil and extreme drought.
Soil: This agave can grow in many landscapes, including mountains, meadows, beaches, and rocky areas. The key is to provide loose, well-draining soil.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 15 degrees for a short period of time. Does very well in the heat.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Agave Americana Problems
Pests: Agave Americana has minimal pests. Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially at the bottom of the agave)
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring.
Agave Americana Propagation
Agave americana produces offsets from the base of the main plant. Using a sterile blade, cut them off, allow to dry, and then replant them.
FAQ
How much does Agave americana cost?
At our nursery, Agave americana costs $15 for a 1-gallon container, $45 for a 5-gallon container, $105 for a 15-gallon container, and $225 for a 24" box.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
What varieties of Agave americana are there?
Variegated forms of Agave americana include Agave americana ‘Marginata’ and Agave americana ‘Mediopicta,’ both of which are available at our nursery. Agave americana ‘Marginata’ is mostly green with yellow margins, and Agave Americana ‘Mediopicta’ is mostly yellow with green margins. View the images above for reference.
What should I do with the agave flower stalk?
Enjoy the gigantic and magnificent bloom!
Some people cut the flower stalk to prolong the agave's life, but doing so has little effect. The agave starts producing the flower stalk when it is already starting to die so that it can create seeds for reproduction.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 3-8 feet X 3-10 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Spring |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Moderate |
| HARDINESS | 15º F, USDA Zone 8 |
| PRUNING | None |