Agave americana Mediopicta Alba (Century Plant)

Smaller than its giant cousin, Agave americana, ‘Mediopicta Alba’ (Century Plant) is an evergreen perennial forming splendid rosettes of thick, spiny-edged, gray-green leaves, each with a bright creamy-white central stripe. The fleshy leaves are armed with recurved spines along the edges and a long terminal spine.

Smaller than its giant cousin, Agave americana, 'Mediopicta Alba' (Century Plant) is an evergreen perennial forming splendid rosettes of thick, spiny-edged, gray-green leaves, each with a bright creamy-white central stripe. The fleshy leaves are armed with recurved spines along the edges and a long terminal spine. Mature plants are topped with a magnificent flower stalk that can reach 15 ft. (4m50), and bears large greenish-yellow flowers. The exquisite variegation of the gracefully undulating leaves, added to the lovely fountain shape of this plant, make 'Mediopicta Alba' one of the most prized of agaves. A large dramatic plant that enjoys plenty of room.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society for its outstanding qualities
  • Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall (90-120 cm) and 4-6 ft. wide (120-180 cm).
  • Easily grown in slightly acidic, sandy or gravelly, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates light shade better than some other agaves. Irrigate occasionally to not at all. Drought tolerant.
  • Great for beds and borders, city gardens, coastal gardens, rock gardens, succulent gardens or Mediterranean gardens. Ideal as an accent plant in sunny borders or in decorative containers.
  • Plant away from foot traffic: the needle-sharp spines on the leaf tips can be a hazard to humans and pets. Don't plant this Agave near paths or walkways
  • Deer resistant but attracts hummingbirds.
  • Virtually disease free. Watch for scale insects.
  • Propagate by offsets taken in spring or fall.
  • Use caution, safety glasses, long sleeves, long pants, well covered shoes, and gloves when cutting this plant.
  • Native to Mexico

Requirements

Hardiness 8
– 11

Heat Zones 5
– 12

Climate Zones 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2
Plant Type Cactus – Succulents
Plant Family Agave
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spread 4'
– 6'
(120cm
– 180cm)
Spacing 72″ (180cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Drought, Salt
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Coastal Garden, Informal and Cottage, Mediterranean Garden