Agave americana 'Opal'

Common Name: American Century Plant, Agave

A yellow-edge form of Agave americana that's sure to be an architectural focal point in your garden. Forms a large, upright habit of dark green leaves with a wide, butter yellow margin. The leaves can measure up to 3in wide, with toothed notches lining the margins. Light green color appears where the margin and centers overlap.

The common name "Century Plant" is alluding to the belief that it takes 100 years to bloom. In reality, Agaves bloom after 15-20 years, and the main crown dies after blooming.

Height:

24.0-36.0 Inches

Spread:

32.0-36.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

8,9,10

Foliage Color:

Green shades Variegated

Sunlight:

Full Sun (> 6 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Low Water Needs Average Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Poor Soil Quality Average Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Acidic Soil (pH < 7.0) Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Critter Resistant:

Deer Resistant Rabbit Resistant

Growth Rate:

Slow

Garden Style:

Asian Patio Container Eclectic Formal Modern Rock Garden

Other Features:

Container Drought Tolerant Attractive Foliage

Origin:

Native to North America

Agave is a tender perennial or "temperennial" succulent plant that grows best in full sun. Light afternoon shade is recommended in the hottest parts of the country. Plant in well-drained, dry to average soil in containers just slightly wider than the width of the rosette or plant directly in the ground. In summer when the plants are actively growing, they appreciate a bit of supplemental watering and half-strength fertilizer. They should be grown dry in winter. Agave is a slower grower, so it will not quickly overtake the space it is allotted in the landscape.

Characteristics