Century Plant - Variegated

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

Variegated Century Plant (Agave americana 'Variegata') – A Drought-Tolerant Beauty for Arizona Landscapes

The Variegated Century Plant, scientifically known as Agave americana 'Variegata', is a striking, low-maintenance succulent that thrives in the hot, arid climate of the Phoenix Valley. Known for its distinctive variegation and architectural form, this plant is a favorite for xeriscaping and water-wise landscaping, making it a perfect fit for Arizona gardens.

Key Features of the Variegated Century Plant:

• Variegated Leaves: The plant’s large, rigid leaves feature beautiful creamy-yellow to white stripes along the margins, set against a green backdrop. This variegation gives the plant a visually captivating, sculptural appearance, perfect for adding a touch of desert elegance to any landscape.
• Size & Form: Typically growing to 6-8 feet tall with a similar spread, the Variegated Century Plant forms a symmetrical, upright focal point in gardens, making it ideal for large open spaces or as a standalone accent plant.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, this plant requires minimal water, storing moisture in its thick leaves, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant landscaping in Arizona’s dry conditions.

Ideal for Arizona Xeriscaping

The Variegated Century Plant thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, making it an excellent option for xeriscape gardens and other low-water-use landscapes in Phoenix and surrounding areas. Its resilience to the intense Arizona heat and ability to flourish with little water make it a sustainable, low-maintenance addition to any yard.

• Water-Wise Landscaping: Perfect for homeowners looking to reduce water usage, this plant adds beauty and sustainability to gardens without the need for regular watering.
• Low-Maintenance: Besides occasional pruning to remove dead leaves, the Variegated Century Plant requires little care, making it ideal for those who want a stunning landscape without the hassle of constant upkeep.
• Architectural Elegance: The plant’s sculptural form and variegated foliage create a bold visual impact, adding an authentic touch of desert beauty to modern and traditional landscapes alike.

Why Choose the Variegated Century Plant for Your Arizona Garden?

• Desert Adaptation: Perfectly adapted to the hot, dry climate of Arizona, the Variegated Century Plant thrives in full sun and can handle extreme heat, making it a reliable and hardy choice for the Phoenix Valley.
• Visual Appeal: Its unique variegation and symmetrical shape make this plant an eye-catching centerpiece for desert gardens, patios, and large landscape designs.
• Low-Water Landscaping: With water conservation being a priority in Arizona, the Variegated Century Plant aligns with sustainable practices by requiring minimal irrigation.

Enhance Your Xeriscape with the Variegated Century Plant

Whether you’re designing a water-efficient garden or adding an architectural focal point to your landscape, the Variegated Century Plant brings both visual charm and desert authenticity to your outdoor spaces. Its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance make it a valuable addition to any Arizona landscape.

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

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 to allow for their mature size and to maintain 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 - Variegated grows similarly to the regular Century Plant, with distinctive striped foliage

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 around the roots

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Century Plant - Variegated 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
• 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: Increase watering frequency in the summer to every 10-14 days, and reduce to every 4-6 weeks in winter