Common Name: century plant
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Family: Asparagaceae
Native Range: Northeastern Mexico
Zone: 8 to 10
Height: 0.75 to 1.00 feet
Spread: 1.00 to 1.50 feet
Bloom Time: May to August
Bloom Description: Yellow-green
Sun: Full sun
Water: Dry
Maintenance: Low
Flower: Showy
Leaf: Colorful, Evergreen
Other: Thorns
Tolerate: Drought, Dry Soil, Shallow-Rocky Soil
Culture
Best grown in dry, rocky to sandy, well-draining soils in full sun. Provide supplemental irrigation during prolonged periods of summer drought. Greatly reduce watering during the winter dormant period. Hardy in Zones 8-10.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Agave victoriae-reginae, commonly called Queen Victoria agave or royal agave, is a succulent, herbaceous perennial native to rocky, limestone slopes in the Chihuahuan Desert of northern Mexico. Mature clumps will reach up to 1' tall and 1.5' wide. May grow in a solitary rosette or form offsets. The stiff, dark green, angular leaves can reach around 7" long and form a tight rosette. The leaves have contrasting, smooth, white margins and a short, black, terminal spine. In summer a single, 10-15' tall, unbranched flowering spike will emerge from the center of rosettes that are 15-30 years old. The flowering stalk is topped with an unbranched spike of yellow-green flowers. The rosette will dieback after blooming.
The genus name Agave comes from the Greek word agauos meaning "admirable" or "noble" in probable reference to the very tall flower spikes found on the plants of many species of Agave.
The specific epithet victoriae-reginae honors Queen Victoria (1819-1901), Queen of the United Kingdom from 1837 until her death.
Problems
No major pest or disease problems of note. Overly wet or heavy soils will lead to root or stem rot. Wet winter conditions should especially be avoided. This plant has sharp terminal spines. Handle with care.
Uses
Accent or specimen plant for xeriscaping, desert gardens, or rock gardens. Takes well to pot culture. This plant has sharp terminal spines. Handle with care and do not situate near sidewalks, driveways, or other highly trafficked areas.