Agave Americana

Name: Agave Americana
Brand: The Sill
SKU: BN-TRO-AGA-SIL-NA-3G-ME12BKD
Price: 199.00 USD
Availability: OutOfStock

Full Sun 2-3 in./yr Growth

Shipping calculated at checkout.

View full details

Agave Americana Information

About

About The Agave Americana

This fierce queen is big, bold, and unbothered.

Move over, Priscilla, there's a new queen of the desert! Agave americana, also known as the Century Plant, is a stunning architectural succulent that makes a dramatic addition to any dry, hot landscape.

Agave americana commands the stage like the star she is, growing up to 6 to 10 feet wide and often just as tall.

But drama doesn't stop there! This intimidating beauty's striking blue-green leaves can get up 5 to 8 feet long, and are edged with sharp spikes (her natural defense against herbivores) that's giving "look but don't touch."

A Stunning Bloom Worthy of a Standing Ovation

Once the regal Ms. Americana has fully matured (usually sometime between 10 to 30 years, depending on conditions), it's time for her final performance.

In a spectacular grand finale, clusters of creamy yellow-green blossoms burst out in huge, branching candelabra-like formations at the very top of a sky-high stalk that can reach up 30 feet tall! Once it's done blooming, the mother begins to die back. But no need for tears (don't ruin that mascara, darling!) As they mature, agaves send out little "pups" that take over. The Agave americana is timeless, commanding, and always leaves a legacy.

NOTE: The name "Century Plant" was given to the plant by European settlers who incorrectly assumed it took the plant 100 years to reach that final bloom. The name stuck — "About Twenty Years Or So Plant" just doesn't have the same ring.

Why You’ll Love It:

Low Maintenance: Thrives on neglect and needs minimal watering — perfect for busy gardeners.
Heat & Drought Tolerant: Ideal for sunny, arid climates or water-conscious landscaping.
Container-Friendly: Grows beautifully in pots, adding bold structure to patios, decks, or entryways. (Just be sure to give it plenty of space and know that the bloom might not be as dramatic.)
Wildlife Resistant: Spiny leaves deter deer and rabbits, leaving your plant intact.

Growing Tips:

Plant Agave americana in well-draining soil and a spot with full sun. If grown in containers, choose a large pot with drainage holes to accommodate its impressive growth and keep roots healthy.

Looking for a plant that combines beauty, resilience, and a bit of drama? Agave americana is the perfect choice for landscapes and containers that demand attention.

Plant Details

Agave Americana Details

Mature Height:

3-6 ft.

Mature Width:

6-10 ft.

Sunlight:

Full Sun

Growth Rate:

Slow

Botanical Name:

Agave americana

Grows Well In Zones:

8-11 outdoors

Does Not Ship To:

AK, AZ, HI, OR

Care Guide

Watering Requirements

Newly planted agaves need occasional light watering once every 1–2 weeks during their first growing season, while established plants are drought-tolerant and rarely require supplemental watering. Potted plants dry out quickly in summer heat and need thorough watering every 1–2 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Sunlight Requirements

Thrives in full sun, needing at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Tolerates very light partial shade, but too much shade leads to weak, stretched, floppy leaves that lose their rosette form.

Humidity Requirements

Agave americana thrives in low to moderate humidity environments. It is exceptionally well-suited for arid, semi-arid, xeriscape, and Mediterranean climates.

Pet-Friendly Plant?

No, use caution when placing this plant in homes with pets.

Read our full care guide

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Agave Americana grows best in full sun, where it develops its bold, architectural form and sturdy blue-green leaves.

How much sun does Agave americana need?

Agave Americana grows best in full sun, where it develops its bold, architectural form and sturdy blue-green leaves.

Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and needs only occasional watering. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent excess moisture around the roots.

How often should Agave americana be watered?

Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and needs only occasional watering. Well-drained soil is essential to prevent excess moisture around the roots.

Yes. Agave Americana can grow in a large, sturdy container, making it easier to showcase on sunny patios or protect from harsh winter conditions in colder climates.

Can Agave americana be grown in a container?

Yes. Agave Americana can grow in a large, sturdy container, making it easier to showcase on sunny patios or protect from harsh winter conditions in colder climates.

Planter Info