Agave americana, commonly known as the century plant or fox tail agave, is a striking succulent native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It features large, fleshy leaves that form a rosette and can grow up to 6 feet in length, with sharp spines on the edges and a pointed tip. The blue-green leaves have a waxy coating that helps retain moisture. Once in its lifetime, usually after 10 to 30 years, it sends up a tall flower spike, which can reach up to 20 feet, bearing yellow flowers. After flowering, the plant dies, leaving behind offsets or "pups" to continue its legacy.
Agave americana features large, fleshy leaves that form a rosette, with leaves reaching up to 6 feet in length. The leaves are edged with sharp spines and end in a pointed tip, contributing to their dramatic appearance. They are blue-green in color and covered with a waxy coating that aids in moisture retention. Remarkably, the plant only flowers once in its lifetime, sending up a tall spike up to 20 feet high, adorned with yellow flowers. After flowering, the plant dies, leaving behind offsets or pups.
Large, Fleshy Leaves
Sharp Spines on Edges
Yellow Flowers Once Lifetime
Thriving in Drought Areas
Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, this cactus thrives in xeriscaped gardens, serving as a striking focal point. This plant is particularly suited for drought-prone areas due to its low water needs. It can be planted in large containers or gardens, adding contrast to softer, rounded plants with its architectural form and dramatic, spiny leaves. The plant’s ability to thrive with minimal care makes it a top choice for creating a bold, sustainable landscape.
Suited for Xeriscapes
Great for Large Containers
Sustainable Landscape Addition
From Agave to Nectar
Agave americana is a source for various products including agave syrup, also known as agave nectar. The syrup, a popular sugar alternative in cooking and baking, is made by extracting, filtering, and heating the sap from the plant’s core, transforming its carbohydrates into sugars. It’s favored in vegan recipes and as a natural sweetener in teas and coffees. Beyond its culinary uses, the fibrous leaves of the agave are processed to produce natural fibers known as sisal, used in crafting ropes, twine, and other materials.
Thrives in full sun and can handle the intense sunlight found in arid environments.
Requires infrequent watering, thriving on a 'soak and dry' method where the soil is allowed to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so good drainage is crucial.
Prefers sandy or rocky soil with excellent drainage. It is tolerant of poor soils and does not require fertile conditions.
Minimal maintenance is needed. Remove old, dead leaves to keep the plant tidy and avoid fungal issues.
Blooms once in its lifetime, generally after 10 to 30 years, producing a tall flower spike before the plant dies.
