Century Plant

Plant Type: Agaves
Plant Height: 6-10 feet
Spread: 8-12 feet
Flower Color: greenish-yellow
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Century Plant (Agave americana) – The Perfect Xeriscape Succulent for Phoenix Landscapes

The Century Plant, or Agave americana, is a stunning, large succulent native to Mexico and the southern United States. Known for its striking architectural form and impressive size, this plant is a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers in the Phoenix Valley, especially in xeriscaping and desert landscapes.

Key Features of the Century Plant:

• Size & Form: This succulent forms a large rosette of thick, fleshy leaves that can grow several feet long. The blue-green to gray-green leaves are edged with sharp spines, creating a sculptural, symmetrical shape that adds a dramatic focal point to any landscape.
• Flowering: The plant’s name comes from the myth that it blooms once every hundred years, but in reality, the Century Plant blooms once between 10 and 30 years. When it does, it produces an impressive flower spike that can reach 15 to 30 feet tall, bearing clusters of yellow or greenish-yellow flowers.
• Drought Tolerant: Like many agaves, the Century Plant thrives in arid environments and requires minimal water once established, making it ideal for low-water landscapes in Arizona.

Why Choose Century Plant for Phoenix Landscaping?

The Century Plant is a perfect addition to desert landscapes and xeriscape gardens in the Phoenix Valley due to its low-maintenance needs and ability to thrive in well-drained soils. Its large, spiny leaves make it ideal for open spaces where its size and sharp edges won’t interfere with foot traffic or structures.

• Drought Resistance: Perfect for Arizona's hot, dry climate, the Century Plant requires very little water, aligning with the region’s focus on water conservation.
• Architectural Beauty: With its bold, symmetrical leaf pattern and towering flower spike, this plant adds a touch of the exotic to any landscape, creating a dramatic visual impact that is sure to impress.
• Easy to Grow: Once established, this agave is highly resilient, requiring little attention, making it perfect for busy homeowners or those seeking sustainable landscape solutions.

Important Considerations:

While the Century Plant is admired for its beauty, be cautious of its sharp spines and the irritating sap that can cause skin and eye irritation. Ensure the plant is placed in areas where its spines won’t pose a safety risk to people or pets.

Enhance Your Xeriscape with the Century Plant

Ideal for large, open spaces and arid landscapes, the Century Plant brings both beauty and practicality to Phoenix Valley homes. Its drought tolerance, sculptural form, and minimal care needs make it an excellent choice for those looking to add an eye-catching focal point to their yard.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Century Plant

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 6-8 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No staking required; Century Plant grows upright with a tall, dramatic flower stalk once it matures

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 3-4 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session to ensure deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Century Plant is considered established after 4-6 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour for slow, deep watering
• Number of Emitters: 1-2 emitters per plant
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce watering to every 4-6 weeks