Agave americana 'Marginata' (Variegated Century Plant)

Scientific Name

Agave americana ‘Marginata’

Common Names

Variegated Century Plant, Yellow Margin Century Plant

Synonyms

Agave americana var. marginata

Scientific Classification

Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Agave

Description

Agave americana ‘Marginata’ is a large rosette-forming succulent up to 6 feet (1.8 m) tall and up to 8 feet (2.4 m) wide with upright slightly wavy gray-green leaves up to 5 feet (1.5 m) long and up to 10 inches (25 cm) wide, that have strong cream to yellow margins. Inflorescence paniculate, tall, flowers pale yellow, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, perianth segments erect, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, ovary shorter than perianth.

Photo via altitudetropicale.forums-actifs.com

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 8a to 11b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Agave is not a difficult plant to grow. They’re slow-growing and dramatic and will even thrive on a bit of neglect. If you’re the type of person who likes to fuss with houseplants and water a lot, Agave is probably not the plant for you. If, however, you’re the type of person who likes to set it and forget it, and you have a sunny window, Agave might the way to go. Be aware that some of the large varieties will eventually outgrow your room (unless you have a large greenhouse), and Agave can be aggressive. They have irritating sap and sometimes very sharp thorns that can cause injuries to small children and even pets.

In general, Agave do not need to be repotted every year. Most of the species commonly found in cultivation grow very slowly and will take a long time to outgrow their pot… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Agave