Agave

BN: Agave americana TH: 5 feet RG: slow ST: high DT: high FS: n/a ZN: 9 thru 11 AS: #3 #7 CH: Sometimes called the Century plant because of the length of time it requires to bloom (10 years plus). There are numerous varieties in the Agave family, some with very unusual leaf shapes, color variations and a wide array of growth habits from smaller stature to gigantic sizes. Flowering depends on the vigor of the individual plant, the richness of the soil and climate. Individual plants die after blooming but new plants (pups) which formed earlier will carry on the plant’s legacy. There are many species, some with vibrant colors, that will grab your eye in front yards and lawns. They like full sun but can tolerate some shade. Most varieties have thorns and some can have a bad bite with sharp barbs on the sides of the leaf and a wicked needle point an inch or more long at the tips. Certain varieties can be invasive, grow very large and live for many years. Many medicinal remedies are made from the juices of plants in this family as well as rope and Tequila from certain varieties. All varieties are highly drought tolerant and very cold hardy to South Florida