Century Plant Agave americana 'Mediopicta' (v)
ABOUT
The Agave americana 'Mediopicta' (v), commonly known as the variegated century plant, displays a striking and sculptural form. Its leaves are thick, fleshy, and have pointed tips, which form a rosette patterning that radiates from the plant's core. The most distinctive feature of this variety is the variegation present on the leaves. Each leaf bears a creamy-white or yellowish stripe running down the center, contrasting sharply with the bluish-green or gray-green color of the leaf's edges. These leaf margins are lined with small, sharp spines that add texture and a defensive characteristic to the plant. The overall impression is one of bold, dramatic coloration that can add visual interest to any garden setting. The variegated century plant is often appreciated for its exotic and tropical appearance, despite being quite hardy and able to withstand less than ideal conditions.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asparagaceae
Synonyms
American Aloe, Century Plant, Maguey, Variegated Century Plant
Common names
Agave medio-picta Albo-marginata, Agave americana var. medio-picta Albo-marginata, Agave americana 'Albo-marginata', Agave americana var. albo-marginata.
ToxicityTo humans
The Century Plant is considered to have toxic properties when humans ingest any part of it. The sap of the Century Plant contains oxalates and other compounds that can cause skin irritation on contact, and if ingested, can cause internal irritation, including burning sensation, swelling of the throat, and gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it could lead to difficulty in breathing due to throat swelling, but this is relatively uncommon.
To pets
The Century Plant is toxic to pets if ingested. The toxic compounds, including oxalates, can cause similar symptoms in animals as in humans, including drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea. In pets, the irritation to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract can be severe, and if the throat swells, it could potentially lead to difficulty breathing. It is important to keep pets away from this plant and seek veterinary attention if they consume any part of it.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Yellow
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
2-4 feet (60-120 cm)
Plant type
Succulent
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerant: The Agave americana 'Mediopicta' is highly drought tolerant, requiring minimal watering once established.
- Low Maintenance: It requires little maintenance, making it a great choice for gardeners who prefer low-care landscapes.
- Architectural Foliage: The bold, variegated leaves add architectural interest to garden designs.
- Long Lifespan: This plant has a long life cycle, living for many years and providing consistent beauty in the landscape.
- Pest Resistant: It is resistant to most pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- Suitable for Xeriscaping: It’s perfect for xeriscaping, which involves creating landscapes that reduce or eliminate the need for irrigation.
- Adaptable: It can adapt to a wide range of soil types as long as they are well-drained.
- Accent Plant: Its striking appearance makes it a focal point in any garden, adding aesthetic value.
- Low Water Bills: As a drought-tolerant plant, it can help reduce water bills in arid climates.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Agave nectar from the Century Plant is often used as a natural sweetener in food and beverages as an alternative to sugar and honey.
- The fibers from the leaves can be extracted and used to make ropes or twine, which is durable and resistant to decomposition.
- The sharp pointed leaf tips can be used as needles or awls for small-scale sewing or puncturing tasks.
- Landscape design often utilizes the Century Plant for its striking appearance as a focal point in gardens, especially in arid regions.
- Leaves of the Century Plant can be used as an ecological soundproofing material due to their density and fibrous nature.
- Culinary uses include roasting the heart of the plant to make traditional Mexican dishes like 'cabrito en pulque'.
- The sap within the plant's core has been historically used as a natural adhesive or glue for various applications.
- During certain preparation processes, the leaves can be used to line cooking pits for barbecuing meats, imparting a unique flavor.
- The penca or thick outer layer of leaves have been used as rough surfaces for cleaning cooking utensils or as scrubbing tools.
- The structural aesthetic and form of the Century Plant inspired some architectural designs and motifs.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Century Plant is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Century Plant is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience – Agave plants, including the Agave americana, are known for their ability to thrive in harsh, arid conditions, symbolizing the ability to withstand tough situations and adapt to challenges.
- Longevity – The Agave americana can live for many years before blooming, representing perseverance and patience.
- Protection – With its strong, pointed leaves, the agave serves as a symbol of safeguarding and defense against adversity.
- Purity – The clear liquid, aguamiel or "honey water" that the plant provides, is often associated with purity and life-sustaining properties.
- Utility – Due to its various uses, including producing fibers (sisal) and tequila, the agave symbolizes resourcefulness and versatility.
WaterThe Century Plant should be watered sparingly as it is highly drought-tolerant. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, usually once every two weeks, by pouring water directly onto the soil around the base of the plant until it is thoroughly moistened. During the hot summer months, you may need to water once a week, but always check the soil moisture first. In winter, reduce watering to once a month or less, depending on the humidity and temperature conditions. Normally, you can expect to use about half a gallon of water for a medium-sized plant at each watering session.
LightThe Century Plant thrives in full sun conditions and should be placed in a spot where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It can tolerate partial shade but will grow best and produce the most vibrant coloration when given ample sunlight. Avoid locations that are overly shaded or dark, as this can stunt the plant's growth and affect its health.
TemperatureCentury Plants prefer warm temperatures and can tolerate a range between 30°F to about 90°F. The ideal temperature for these plants is around 70°F to 80°F. They are hardy to about 10°F; however, it's important to protect them from frost, which can damage the foliage and compromise their health.
PruningPruning the Century Plant is generally done to remove any damaged or dead leaves and to maintain its appearance. Use clean, sharp shears to trim away these leaves at their base, being careful of the sharp edges. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. It's not necessary to prune this plant often, typically only when you notice damaged foliage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Century Plant thrives in a well-draining soil mix composed of perlite or sand, potting soil, and compost in equal parts. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0, which helps prevent root rot and suits the plant's needs.
RepottingCentury Plants should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container, but handle with care due to its spiky leaves. Use a pot only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid water retention.
Humidity & MistingCentury Plants are highly tolerant of dry air and prefer low humidity levels. They thrive in typical indoor environments and do not require additional humidity, making them adaptable to most homes.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Needs full sun, well-drained soil, and infrequent watering.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleAgave americana 'Mediopicta' (v), commonly known as the Variegated Century Plant, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination produces a small rosette of variegated leaves. As the plant grows, the rosette enlarges, and the Agave can remain in this vegetative stage for several years. Throughout its life, the plant stores energy in its leaves and central core; when it has accumulated enough energy and reaches maturity, which could take anywhere from 10 to 30 years, the Agave sends up a tall flower stalk that can reach several meters in height. After blooming with clusters of yellow flowers favored by pollinators, the plant completes its sexual reproduction. Once flowering is finished, the Variegated Century Plant uses up its stored energy and usually dies, though it may produce offspring through basal offshoots, or "pups," which have developed around its base during its life. These pups can be separated to grow into new plants, thus perpetuating the life cycle of the species.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: The Century Plant, or Agave americana 'Mediopicta', is typically propagated through offsets, which are small baby plants that emerge from the base of the parent plant. The best time to propagate the Century Plant is during the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and the weather is warm. To propagate by offsets, gardeners should carefully remove the baby plants from the mother plant with a clean, sharp knife or spade, ensuring that each offset has some roots attached. These offsets can then be allowed to dry for a few days to form a callous on the cut surface, which helps prevent rotting. Once calloused, the offsets can be planted in well-draining soil and watered sparingly until they establish themselves and begin to grow on their own.
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