Tropicals – Agave

• Agave 

Botanical name: agave americana

Average Size at Maturity: up to 20 ft tall and 10 ft wide. Will likely stay at about 8 ft tall and 3 – 4 ft wide 

Hardy zone: zones 5 – 11

Bloom Time: This plant is nicknamed ‘century plant’ because it can take up to 80 years for this plant to bloom for the first time. The fastest blooming species will bloom for the first time in 8 – 10 years. They will only bloom once in their lifetime. The flowers can reach up to 30 ft tall but most likely will not exceed 10 ft. It is a summer blooming plant. 

Flower Color: green, yellow

Foliage Color: green/blue

Growth Rate: can grow half a foot – 2 ft per year

Pruning needs: does not require pruning. Dead or damaged leaves may require removal as needed.

Landscape Use:accent plant 

Light Needs: 6 hours of sun a day

Special Feature: fire retardant (because they store so much water in their leaves and stems)

Water Needs: water every other day for the first month, then reduce watering to 2 – 3 times a month once established 

Fertilizing needs: fertilizing is highly advised against.