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 |
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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 |