Yellow striped century plant

Plant Type: Succulent / Agave
Plant Height: 3–4 feet
Spread: 4–6 feet
Flower Color: Yellow (after many years on tall bloom stalk)
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Yellow Striped Century Plant: Bold Color and Desert Elegance

The Yellow Striped Century Plant (Agave americana ‘Mediopicta Aurea’) is a stunning variegated agave known for its dramatic golden-yellow stripes running along the center of each leaf. With its vivid coloring and architectural symmetry, this agave adds instant visual impact to Arizona landscapes. Tough, heat-loving, and low maintenance, it’s one of the most eye-catching accent plants for modern desert and xeriscape designs.

Key Features of Yellow Striped Century Plant

Brilliant Variegation: Golden-yellow central stripe flanked by blue-green leaf margins creates vibrant contrast in the landscape.

Architectural Shape: Forms a symmetrical rosette that brings structure and form to garden beds, entryways, and containers.

Low Maintenance: Requires almost no care—no pruning and very minimal watering once established.

Drought & Heat Tolerant: Ideal for Arizona’s desert conditions; thrives in full sun and reflected heat.

Statement Piece: Works beautifully as a focal point or paired with other succulents for color contrast and texture.

Growing and Care Tips

• Soil: Must have fast-draining soil such as decomposed granite, sandy loam, or cactus mix.
• Water: Very low water needs—allow soil to fully dry between deep waterings.
• Fertilizer: Not necessary; avoid overfeeding, which can reduce leaf color intensity.
• Temperature: Hardy to around 20°F; protect from extended frost.
• Maintenance: Remove occasional pups (offsets) to maintain symmetry or use for propagation.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Perfect focal point for rock gardens or desert landscapes.
• Modern & Mediterranean Gardens: Pairs beautifully with gravel, boulders, and desert trees.
• Container Planting: Striking centerpiece in large decorative pots.
• Waterwise Designs: Excellent for xeriscape and low-maintenance installations.

Summary

The Yellow Striped Century Plant combines bold color and rugged performance in one spectacular plant. Its golden variegation, symmetrical shape, and drought tolerance make it a standout for any Arizona landscape. With minimal care and long-lasting appeal, it brings structure, texture, and year-round vibrance to modern and traditional garden designs alike.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow):

Yellow Striped Century Plant (Agave americana ‘Mediopicta Aurea’) Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun (6–8+ hours of direct sunlight daily)
Soil: Fast-draining cactus or sandy soil mix
Spacing: 4–6 feet apart to allow mature rosette spread
Planting Depth: Keep root ball even with soil surface
Support: None required; naturally self-supporting rosette

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Lightly water root ball immediately after planting.
• Frequency: Every 7–10 days for the first 4 weeks.
• Amount: Provide a light, deep soak—avoid water pooling at the base.

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: 2–3 months after planting when new growth appears.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 3–4 weeks during periods of extreme heat if no rainfall occurs.
• Winter: Water every 6–8 weeks or not at all if temperatures remain cool.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: One emitter placed 8–10 inches from the base.
• Flow Rate: 0.5–1 gallon per hour per emitter.
• Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly during high heat; reduce or pause in winter.

General Watering Tips for Yellow Striped Century Plant

• Soil Check: Allow soil to dry completely before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much moisture can cause root rot—less is more.
• Mulch: Use decorative gravel or decomposed granite to enhance presentation and maintain soil warmth.