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Agave americana 'Marginata' Century plant

Century plant Agave americana 'Marginata', photo by John Glover
,GAP Photos

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  • Century plant Agave americana 'Marginata', photo by John Glover
,GAP Photos

Plant details

  • Common Name: Century plant
  • Genus: Agave
  • Species: americana
  • Cultivar: 'Marginata'
  • Skill Level: experienced
  • Exposure: full sun
  • Hardiness: tender
  • Soil type: moist, well-drained/light
  • Height: 2m
  • Spread: 3m
  • Time to plant seeds: March to April
  • Time to divide plants: October to April

More a succulent border perennial than a shrub because it does not develop permanent woody stems, and regarded by many as an indoor or seasonal plant for growing outdoors in summer. The Century Plant, as it is sometimes known, eventually forms an enormous rosette of stiff, dangerously pointed leaves, and only flowers when about 30-40 years old, after which the main plant dies, leaving young offsets as successors. Plants need warm sunny positions, protected from winter wet, and in many gardens are best grown in containers.

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