Agave - Agave Americana

Overview: Agave Americana, commonly known as Century Plant, is a large, striking succulent known for its rosette of thick, spiny leaves. It is often used in landscaping for its dramatic appearance and low maintenance needs.

Key Features:

• Large rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves with sharp spines along the edges and at the tips
• Leaves are typically bluish-green, sometimes variegated with white or yellow
• Produces a tall flowering stalk (up to 30 feet) with yellow flowers, usually once in its lifetime

Care Guide:

• Light: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
• Watering: Drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
• Soil: Requires well-draining soil, such as sandy or rocky soil. Can tolerate poor soil conditions.
• Temperature & Humidity: Thrives in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) for short periods. Prefers low humidity.
• Fertilization: Generally does not require fertilization. If desired, use a balanced, diluted fertilizer once a year in the spring.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and prevent pests.
• Pests & Diseases: Generally resistant to pests, but watch for agave snout weevils and scale insects. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.

Size & Growth:

• Mature Height: Typically 3-6 feet (90-180 cm) tall, but can grow taller
• Mature Spread: Can spread up to 6-10 feet (180-300 cm)
• Growth Rate: Slow growth rate, taking several years to reach full size

Usage:

• Ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and large containers
• Suitable as a focal point in landscape design
• Can be used in coastal and desert gardens

Additional Information:

• Origin: Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States
• Toxicity: Sap can be irritating to skin and mucous membranes. Handle with care and wear gloves. Keep away from pets and children.
• Fun fact: The name "Century Plant" comes from the misconception that it takes 100 years to flower. In reality, it typically flowers after 10-30 years, depending on the growing conditions.

Pot: The actual pot may vary from the product image.