Variegated Century Plant
Succulent BUSH BOTH Placement

Variegated Century Plant

Agave americana 'Marginata'

Identified By Unknown Guest

Agave americana 'Marginata' is a striking succulent featuring large, spiky blue-green leaves bordered with creamy yellow margins. It forms a massive, architectural rosette and is extremely hardy and drought-tolerant once established.

Also known as: American Aloe Variegated Agave

Safety Warnings

Toxic to Pets: Contains calcium oxalate crystals and sap that can cause severe irritation, drooling, and vomiting in pets if ingested or touched.
Toxic to Humans: The sap can cause contact dermatitis, skin irritation, and blistering. Ingestion causes severe mouth irritation and gastrointestinal distress.

Growth & Dimensions

Height 100 - 180 cm
Width 150 - 250 cm
Growth Rate Slow
Care Level Easy
Lifespan Perennial

Ideal Environment

Temperature -5°C - 35°C
Sunlight Hours 6 - 10 hrs/day
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil pH 6 - 7.5
Watering Interval 14 - 30 days
Humidity 10.00% - 40.00%
USDA Zone 8a - 11b

Arid and Semi-Arid Climates

Climate: Thrives in dry, warm climates with low humidity and high sun exposure.

Soils: Sandy Rocky Loam
Annual Rainfall: 100 - 500 mm

Native Regions

Mexico
Southwestern United States
Central America

Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply only when the soil is completely dry. Reduce watering significantly during winter months.

Sunlight

Requires full sun for at least 6 hours a day to maintain vibrant coloration and compact growth.

Soil & Fertilizer

Plant in extremely well-draining sandy or rocky soil. Fertilize sparingly with a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once in spring.

Propagation Methods

Division

Separate the offsets (pups) that grow around the base of the parent plant and pot them in well-draining soil.

Seed

Sow seeds in a well-draining cactus mix at warm temperatures.

Common Diseases & Pests

Root Rot

Fungal
Symptoms:

Mushy base, yellowing leaves, and sudden collapse of the plant.

Treatment:

Remove rotted roots, let dry, and replant in fresh, dry, well-draining soil.

Prevention:

Ensure proper drainage and never let the plant sit in standing water.

Properties & Benefits

Uses & Health Benefits

Ornamental Value

Provides dramatic architectural and tropical aesthetic appeal to landscapes and large containers.

Precautions: Handle with care due to sharp terminal spines and irritating sap.

Key Nutrients / Compounds

Calcium Oxalate high Defensive compound present in sap

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