The century plant, Agave americana , is very large and should be given plenty of clearance. The succulent, 6-foot long fronds are edged with nasty hooked teeth and terminate with dangerously sharp and rigid spines. Both the bulk and the spines should be seriously considered before planting a century plant, as they are difficult to remove. They should not be planted where they may be dangerous to visitors to the garden. Foliage is typically somewhat blue or gray.
Some cultivars exhibit green foliage, variegated with yellow or white stripes.
After about 12 years, or sometimes longer, a single flower stalk emerges from the center of the plant. The stalk eventually reaches 20 to 40 feet tall and may take more than the first year to develop. Although the greenish flowers are not showy, the stalk is impressive. If divided and given enough space, the pups will mature as the parent plant did. Century plants tolerate drought and adverse conditions.