A massive architectural rosette of thick blue-grey leaves armed with sharp spines and a vicious terminal spike, crowned after decades by a towering branched flower stalk. A bold drought-proof sculptural plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 2 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Century Plant
Botanically, Agave americana is a slow-growing succulent in the Asparagaceae family. It reaches around 2 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. Yellow flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Century Plant
Century Plant suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Century Plant does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Century Plant is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Century Plant after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Century Plant in the garden
Century Plant earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Century Plant with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is thorny — useful as a barrier, but wear gloves when pruning. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Century Plant
Plant Sale lists Century Plant as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.