⚠️For informational purposes only. Do not consume, handle, or apply any plant for medical purposes based on this profile alone. Always consult a qualified expert. Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222. Full disclaimer →
American Century Plant
📚 Agave americana
📍 Mexico (central and southern regions), southwestern United States
The American Century Plant is a striking succulent native to Mexico, famous for its dramatic flowering stalk that can reach up to 30 feet tall. Despite its common name, it typicall…
The American Century Plant is a striking succulent native to Mexico, famous for its dramatic flowering stalk that can reach up to 30 feet tall. Despite its common name, it typically blooms after 10–30 years, then dies. Its bold, spiky rosettes make it a popular architectural plant in xeriscapes.
Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens. Its flowers support pollinators like bats and hummingbirds, and the plant has historical uses for food…
Extremely drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise gardens. Its flowers support pollinators like bats and hummingbirds, and the plant has historical uses for food, fiber, and medicine.
⚠️Harmful or Dangerous
⛔ Contains Toxins⚠ Invasive Species⛔ Toxic to Humans🐾 Toxic to Pets
🚨 If ingested, rinse mouth and seek medical attention immediately; for eye or skin contact, flush thoroughly with water and consult a doctor if irritation persists.
Sap and leaf edges contain sharp spines and irritating oxalate crystals; wear gloves and eye protection when handling.
📖Known Uses
Traditional use of sap as a laxative and diuretic; poultices from leaves applied to wounds and bruises. Modern research explores antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
🍽 Edible parts: flower stalk, sap (aguamiel), roasted heart (cabeza)
Susceptible to agave snout weevil and scale insects; root rot can occur in poorly drained soils.
🌱Care Instructions
🪨 Soil: Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil; tolerates poor, rocky conditions but not heavy clay.
Full sun to partial shade; water sparingly, allow soil to dry completely between waterings; well-draining sandy or gritty soil; tolerates heat and drought, protect from frost
✂️ Propagation
Propagate by removing offsets (pups) from the base in spring or from seeds after flowering.
⚖️Known Legal Restrictions
⚠ May be regulated as invasive in some states
✓ No specific legal restrictions on record
Always verify with your local extension office or county regulations before planting, harvesting, or selling any plant commercially. Rules vary by state and municipality.
