Bio Facts: Century Plant
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Common Name:
Century Plant
Scientific Name:
Agave americana
Origin:
arid areas of Mexico
USDA Cold Hardiness Zones:
8b-11
Light Requirements:
Full sun
Soil Requirements:
Low water, well drained soil, xeric
Notes:
- Evergreen, leaves can get 6’ long
- Takes 10 to 60 years before blooming, plant dies after blooming and the many “pups” it has produced take over
- Flower stalks can reach 20’-40’ with pale yellow flowers at the top.
- Used as fencing in Mexico because of the tightly formed colonies it creates.
- Sap can be a diuretic and laxative
- Flower stalk and heart are sweet and can be roasted and eaten
- Variegated variety has same requirements
