PerennialsAgave americana
Century Plant
The century plant is an imposing rosette-forming succulent with broad, blue-green, sharply pointed leaves reaching up to two metres in length. The plant grows for decades before flowering once with a spectacular, multi-metre tall flower stalk — after which the mother plant dies, leaving behind offsets. As an architectural focal point it fits perfectly in modern and Mediterranean gardens.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 100–200 cm
- Spread
- 150–300 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 8–11
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Evergreen
- Yes
- Flower colors
- yellow
- Wildlife value
- bees, birds
Care guide
Plant in full sun in very well-drained, sandy soil. Almost no watering needed — overwatering is the biggest enemy. In cold climates, keep as a container plant and overwinter frost-free. The sharp spines on the leaf tips pose a risk; trim them off if needed.
Pruning tips
Pruning is rarely needed. Occasionally remove dead lower leaves by cutting them close to the stem. Wear thick gloves and protective clothing due to the sharp spines and irritating sap.
Good companions
PerennialsYucca filamentosa
Adam's Needle
Adam's needle is a robust evergreen plant with sword-shaped leaves growing in a compact rosette. Characteristic curling threads line the leaf edges. In summer an impressive flower stalk rises up to one and a half metres, laden with creamy-white bell-shaped flowers. Surprisingly hardy for a plant with such an exotic appearance.
ShrubsSantolina chamaecyparissus
Cotton Lavender
Cotton lavender is a compact, silvery dwarf shrub with finely divided, aromatic foliage and round, button-like yellow flowers from June to August. The silver-grey leaves form dense, dome-shaped cushions that remain decorative even outside the flowering season. Excellent as a low hedge, border edging or in a herb garden.
TreesOlea europaea
Olive Tree
The olive tree is a majestic, long-lived tree with distinctive silver-green foliage and a gnarled trunk that grows increasingly characterful with age. In warm climates it produces edible olives following a modest white bloom in June. As a container plant it can bring Mediterranean charm to cooler regions too.