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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Century Plant handles dry conditions well once established. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Century Plant after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
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 easier irrigation and care, group Century Plant with species that also favour very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
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. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
