Agave Americana Variegata Century Plant

Agave Americana Variegata, also known as Variegated Century Plant or Variegated American Aloe
A striking architectural plant, Agave Americana Variegata is an evergreen, rosette-forming perennial that boasts an attractive habit and year-round colour. This is the variegated version of the standard Agave.

The large blade-shaped and spiky-edged leaves are greyish green, with a distinct creamy yellow stripe on each of the sides. Native to Mexico and some parts of the southern USA, this eye-catching spikey succulent is also known as Variegated Century Plant or Variegated American Aloe. It’s common name (Century Plant) is due to the myth that it flowers once every hundred years, but that is far from true. While it seldom flowers, it is closer to once every 30 to 40 years rather than once in a century. When this happens, the main plant will die, but the young shoots will remain, as well as the seed from the flowers for propagating.

As a sign of its resilience and good performance in the UK gardens, Agave Americana Variegata hold an Award of Garden Merit (AGM) from the Royal Horticultural Society.

Height and Spread of Agave Americana Variegata
A tall and stately perennial, Variegated Century Plant is around 1.5 metre tall and wide when fully mature.

How Hardy is Agave Americana Variegata
Despite its origins in a hot and arid climate, Variegated American Aloe adapted well to the British climate. While hardy in the UK, this evergreen perennial tolerates low temperatures but not frost. To survive, it will have to be sheltered from harsh winter conditions. Where possible, grow in pots to be brought indoors when the temperatures drop or in a glasshouse, or if you live in a milder climate (e.g. seaside) make sure to choose a sheltered spot in the garden and provide winter protection.

How To Use Agave Americana Variegata
Thanks to its striking appearance, Variegated Century Plant makes a great statement plant, and its exotic looks make it especially suited for Mediterranean gardens. Drought-tolerant and accustomed to warmer climates, it will do well in gravel gardens and coastal areas. In places where additional winter sheltering is recommended, grow Variegated American Aloe in large containers to add interest to a patio or entrance to your home. This way, you can move them indoors when the frosts start.

How To Care For Agave Americana Variegata
When grown in a garden, Agave Americana Variegata needs a sheltered spot in full sun. The soil should be well-drained for the better part of the year, and almost dry (minimal watering) in the winter.