Century plant (Agave americana)
Century plant, also known as American aloe, Sentry plant
The century plant, despite its name, typically has a lifespan of around 10 to 30 years. It is renowned for its singular blooming event, which occurs just once before it dies. As it nears the end of its life, the plant produces a towering flower stalk that can grow up to 30 feet tall, adorned with yellow blossoms. This remarkable event signals the end of the plant's life cycle. However, the plant's offshoots can continue to grow. Additionally, the plant's tough fibers are often used for making items like mats and ropes, and its moisture-rich sap can be fermented to produce various alcoholic beverages.
Key Facts About Century plant
Attributes of Century plant
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Succulent, Herb
Plant Height
1 m to 3 m
Spread
2 m to 3.5 m
Leaf Color
Green Blue Silver Yellow White Gray
Flower Size
10 cm
Flower Color
Yellow Green White Gold
Scientific Classification of Century plant
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Monocotyledons
Order
Asparagus and allies
Family
Asparagus
Genus
Agaves
Species
Century plant