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Agave americana var. striata (Yellow-striped Century Plant) - This large succulent is slightly smaller than the species but still grows to an impressive 5 to 6 feet tall and 6 to 8 feet wide. It has long gray glaucous leaves that are striated with thin yellow lines. As with the species, there are recurved spines on the margins and a long terminal spine. Yellow-green flowers attract hummingbirds, however the Century Plant doesn't bloom until it is a decade or so old (not a century!) and then the main flowering rosette dies with suckers emerging around its base.
Plant in full sun. Irrigate occasionally to not at all. Cold hardy to 15 degrees F or less. This large plant can be dramatic in the landscape - give it plenty of room and situate it away from traffic. Great on a hillside. Striking as an individual plant or when used in mass. Use extreme care when working around or trimming any Agave. Not only are the spines wicked and cause a painful swelling if one is poked, but the sap of many species is caustic. Many a person has regretted using a chainsaw, which throws the juices back at the user, to trim an agave.
For more information on the species see our listing of Agave americana.
The information displayed on this page about Agave americana var. striata is based on the research we have conducted about it in our nursery library as well as from information provided by reliable online resources. We also include our own observations made about this plant as it grows in the nursery gardens and other gardens visited, as well how the crops of this plant have performed in the containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments that we have received from others and welcome hearing from anyone with information about this plant, particularly if it includes cultural information that will aid others to better grow it.
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