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Americana Silver Agave

$11995 $25995
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Your Plants are Guaranteed to Grow

Your plants are guaranteed to arrive happy & healthy with our 1 Year Warranty. Your order will arrive healthy and stay healthy while they adapt to your climate. If your tree arrives damaged or dies within 30 days, we'll replace it for free. If it dies after 30 days, but before 1 year, we will replace it for just 50% of the current price.

Free Shipping on All Orders

Relax... we've got you covered with free shipping on every order! We ship out so many huge plants, we've negotiated a low rate with our carriers... and we pass those savings on to you! Your plants will ship out the next business day... expertly packed so that your plants will arrive happy and healthy!

Is Now a Good Time to Plant?

Yes! Fall is one of the best times to plant!

Landscaping experts often recommend planting in fall instead of waiting until spring. Here’s why:

  • Cooler weather puts less stress on newly planted trees and shrubs.
  • Fall soil is still warm, which helps roots grow and get established.
  • Cooler temperatures mean less water is lost through the leaves, making it easier for plants to stay hydrated.
  • Even after top growth slows for winter, roots continue developing below ground.
  • Fall weather often brings more rain and less heat, making new plants easier to care for.
  • By spring, your plants already have a head start. Their established roots can support strong new leaves, branches, and flowers.
  • Trees planted in spring must establish their roots while also dealing with rising temperatures and summer heat.

Plant this fall, and your trees can spend the cooler months getting settled instead of waiting until spring to get started!

Planting your Americana Silver Agave

Planting Instructions for Americana Silver Agave

  1. Choosing the Right Location: Plant Americana Silver Agave in full sun with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day; the sunniest, hottest spot in your yard is ideal. In partial sun it grows more slowly and may stretch. Keep it well away from walkways and play areas, where the spiny leaf tips could snag passersby.
  2. Soil Preparation: Provide well-draining sandy or rocky soil. This agave tolerates poor soils, but avoid heavy clay, which holds moisture and can lead to root rot. Planting on a slope or raised mound improves drainage in wetter regions and helps protect the roots.
  3. Planting: Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and wider, and set the plant so the base of the rosette sits at or slightly above soil level. Because it can spread 6 to 10 feet with leaves up to 6 feet long, give it plenty of room from paths, buildings, and other plants. Wear thick gloves and long sleeves while planting.
  4. Mulching and First Watering: Water once after planting, then let the soil dry out before watering again. Use gravel or rock as a top-dressing instead of bark mulch; it keeps moisture away from the base of the leaves and suits desert and rock garden designs.

Care Instructions

  1. Watering: Water sparingly, about once every 2 to 3 weeks in hot, dry weather, and let the soil dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root problems. It is extremely drought tolerant once established.
  2. Fertilizing: Americana Silver Agave needs little or no fertilizer, especially in the ground. If growth seems poor, apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer once in spring. Too much feeding causes soft, weak growth that is more prone to rot.
  3. Pest and Disease Monitoring: Its sharp spines and tough leaves deter most pests. Occasionally check leaf bases for mealybugs or scale, and watch for a suddenly collapsing rosette, which can indicate agave snout weevil or root rot from overly wet soil.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

  1. Pruning: Trim dead or damaged lower leaves to keep it tidy, and remove offsets if you do not want it to spread. Always wear gloves and long sleeves when working near it, since the spines are sharp and the sap can irritate skin.
  2. Winter Care: Americana Silver Agave grows best in USDA zones 8 to 11. It can tolerate brief dips below freezing, but extended frost may damage the leaves. In cooler climates, cover it with frost cloth during cold snaps, plant it in a protected microclimate, or grow it in a container you can move indoors.
  3. Growing in Containers: It can grow in oversized pots on patios, balconies, or entryways, which also slows its growth. Use a cactus mix and a heavy container with drainage holes, and water potted agaves only when the mix is completely dry.

Additional Tips for Growing Americana Silver Agave

  1. Flowering and Pups: Agave americana typically blooms after 10 to 30 years, not 100 as the name century plant suggests. The flower spike can reach up to 30 feet tall with yellow-green blooms. The main plant dies after flowering but leaves offsets behind, which you can separate and replant.
  2. Pet Safety: Agave americana is considered toxic to dogs and cats if chewed, and its sap can cause skin irritation in people and pets. The sharp leaf tips are an injury risk too, so plant it away from play areas and pathways.
  3. Security and Slopes: Deer tend to leave it alone, and its spines make it a natural security planting along fences and property lines. Its deep roots also help stabilize slopes and rocky terrain.
What Customers say about the Americana Silver Agave:

The Americana Silver Agave thrives in Zones 8-11

Growing Zones for the Americana Silver Agave

If you live in the green area above, we recommend the Americana Silver Agave.

Your Growing Zone
Recommended Zones 8-11
Mature Height 6-10 ft.
Mature Width 3-6 ft.
Cannot Ship To AZ, OR
Sunlight Full Sun
Botanical Name Agave americana

Plants that Make a Difference

For 20+ years, our team has shipped healthy, established plants to gardeners like you- all across the country. Every plant is selected and cared for by our plant experts before it ships to your door.

  • 20+ Years Experience

  • Superior Quality

  • Free Shipping on All Orders

  • Guaranteed to Grow

Agave Americana with sprawling, blue-green leaves in a garden with tall cypress trees and flowers.

Beware- not all Americana Silver Agaves are the same.

Be sure to get superior succulents, grown by experts.

Better Roots Make Stronger Plants: Some nurseries send you "bare root" succulents to save on shipping. Even worse, others have started digging them right out of the ground before shipping. This causes major transplant shock and long-term damage. We send you Americana Silver Agaves in soil-filled containers- ensuring a well-developed root system that will explode with growth!

Healthy Plants: We've seen other nurseries grow tall succulents in tiny pots to save on shipping. This leads to a "root bound" plant, where the roots have outgrown their pot- they cannot absorb water and nutrients. They quickly dry out during shipment, leading to an unhealthy plant.

Agave Americana with broad, silvery-blue leaves in a landscaped garden with gravel and greenery.

The Americana Silver Agave is a bold, sculptural century plant that makes a dramatic statement in any sunny landscape.

  • Big architectural rosette of blue-green to gray-green leaves, reaching 6-10 ft. in size
  • Extremely drought tolerant once established- perfect for water-wise gardens
  • Thrives in tough spots: poor, sandy or rocky soil and full sun
  • Deer resistant, and grows outdoors in zones 8-11

Not all plants are created equal

The Difference Is in the Roots

Every plant we ship has grown in a nursery container with its roots protected, so it arrives healthy, established and ready to thrive in your yard.

A full, branched Nationwide Plants tree in a nursery pot next to a thin bare-root tree with exposed roots Ours: container grown Theirs: bare root
Nationwide Plants Other Nurseries
How it's grown Grown in a nursery container, roots protected the whole time Pulled or dug from the field, tearing fragile roots
How it arrives Arrives in its pot with soil intact Arrives bare root, exposed and drying out
Before shipping Growing naturally until it ships Held dormant in a cooler, then shocked by a hot shipping box
Root health Strong, well-developed roots with room to grow Crammed into a small pot until it's root bound
Height Measured from the top of the soil Often includes the pot and roots
After planting Settles in quickly with less transplant shock Arrives stressed and can take years to recover, if it does

The height you see is the height you plant.

We measure every plant from the top of the soil, not the bottom of the pot. Many nurseries include the pot and roots, so a "5–6 ft." tree from them might stand only 4 ft. tall once it's planted.

Comparisons reflect common practices across the online plant industry, not any single company.

Close up of the foliage of the century plant

Honest Measurements: Some nurseries measure plants including the pot and roots, so the plant you receive is much smaller than you expected. We measure all of our plants from the soil line, so the height you see is what you can expect after planting.

From our nursery to your door

How We Ship Your Plants

Every order is hand-selected, watered and carefully packed so it arrives healthy and ready to plant. Here's what happens after you place your order.

  1. Hand-Picked for You

    Our team selects the best plant available for your order. For privacy trees, that's the tallest and fullest. For fruit trees, it's the best branched.

    Why it matters: Many online nurseries ship whatever is next in the row.

  2. A Deep Drink Before the Trip

    Every plant gets a thorough watering right before it's packed, so it starts the journey fully hydrated.

  3. Roots Sealed In

    We wrap the pot and roots in plastic to lock in moisture, so your plant has water to drink all the way to your door.

    Why it matters: Bare-root plants are often shipped with their roots exposed and drying out.

  4. Braced for the Ride

    Cardboard inserts are secured inside every box to hold your plant in place, so it won't slide, tip or get damaged in transit.

  5. Shipped Only by FedEx

    We ship your trees exclusively with FedEx. We've found they deliver the fastest and handle live plants the most gently.

And if anything goes wrong, every plant is backed by our 1 Year Warranty.

Healthy Roots Make a Huge Difference

  • Never buy bare-root plants. These trees are starved of nutrients, and have a low survival rate.
  • Beware of nurseries cut corners by growing in small pots. These "rootbound" plants are weak, struggle to absorb nutrients, and die quickly after planting.
  • Some nurseries try to sell oversized plants, but chop off vital roots so they can cram the rootball into a narrow box to save on shipping!
Americana Silver Agave in a drought-tolerant landscape with smooth stones and dense green shrubs.

You Want Americana Silver Agaves Grown by Experts

Some nurseries ship small, weak agaves grown in tiny pots to save money. These "root bound" plants struggle after planting and take much longer to fill out into a full rosette.

Nationwide Plants only sends you strong Americana Silver Agaves, selected and cared for by our plant experts, with healthy, developed root systems. That means they settle in quickly and start growing into a dramatic focal point sooner.

Read more about the Americana Silver Agave

Americana Silver Agave: A Stunning and Resilient Succulent for Your Landscape

Agave americana, commonly known as the century plant or Americana Silver Agave, is a bold and architectural succulent that makes a striking statement in any garden. Known for its large, blue-green leaves with sharp, serrated edges, this plant is perfect for those looking for a low-maintenance yet dramatic addition to their outdoor space.

Why You Should Grow Agave americana

  • Drought-Tolerant & Low Maintenance – This succulent thrives in dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
  • Unique and Architectural Beauty – The rosette growth pattern creates a sculptural look that adds interest to rock gardens, desert landscapes, and modern outdoor designs.
  • Long Lifespan & Slow Growth – Though called the "century plant," it typically lives 10–30 years before flowering, making it a long-lasting presence in your garden.
  • Impressive Flowering Display – When mature, Agave americana produces a towering flower spike that can reach up to 30 feet tall, covered in yellow-green blooms that attract pollinators.
  • Thrives in Tough Conditions – It grows well in poor soils, rocky terrain, and full sun, making it perfect for difficult landscaping areas.
  • Deer and Pest Resistant – The sharp spines and tough leaves deter most animals and pests, reducing maintenance and plant loss.

Key Identifying Features:

  • Rosette Growth: The leaves radiate out from the center in a symmetrical, spiky rosette.
  • Leaf Texture & Color: Thick, fleshy, bluish-green or gray-green leaves with sharp, serrated edges.
  • Size: Can grow quite large, with leaves reaching several feet in length.
  • Spines: Prominent sharp tip at the end of each leaf.

Agave Americana's Unique Features

Dramatic Foliage

The thick, fleshy leaves grow in a symmetrical rosette, with each leaf reaching up to 6 feet long in mature plants. The bluish-green to gray-green color provides an elegant contrast to other landscape plants, and some varieties feature striking variegation with creamy yellow edges.

Imposing Size

This plant can spread 6–10 feet wide, making it a dominant focal point in a landscape. Its sheer size makes it an excellent choice for large gardens, open spaces, and even commercial landscaping projects.

Magnificent Flowering Cycle

Though Agave americana only flowers once in its lifetime, it produces a spectacular bloom. The flower stalk shoots up dramatically and can reach several stories high, attracting bees, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. After flowering, the plant produces offsets, ensuring its legacy continues.

Ideal Growing Conditions

Sunlight Requirements

Agave americana thrives in full sun, needing at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can handle partial sun but will grow slower and may become leggy.

Soil Preferences

This plant prefers well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil. It can tolerate poor soils, but avoiding heavy clay is important, as excess moisture can lead to root rot.

Watering Needs

  • Extremely drought-tolerant
  • Water sparingly – about once every 2–3 weeks in hot, dry climates
  • Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root issues

Temperature & Hardiness

  • Best suited for USDA zones 8–11
  • Can tolerate brief dips below freezing, but extended exposure to frost may damage leaves
  • If grown in cooler climates, plant in containers to move indoors during cold months

How to Use Americana Silver Agave in Your Landscape

  • Focal Point – Its size and dramatic form make it ideal as a centerpiece in rock gardens or desert landscapes.
  • Container Planting – Though large, it can be grown in oversized pots for patios, balconies, or entryways.
  • Erosion Control – The deep root system helps stabilize slopes and rocky terrain.
  • Drought-Resistant Landscaping – Pair with other water-wise plants like yucca, cactus, and ornamental grasses for a low-maintenance design.
  • Security Planting – The sharp spines make it an excellent natural barrier along fences and property lines.

Maintenance and Care Tips

  • Minimal Pruning Needed – Trim dead or damaged leaves to maintain shape and remove offsets if desired.
  • Protection from Frost – In colder regions, consider covering with frost cloth or planting in a protected microclimate.
  • Handling with Care – The spines can be sharp; use gloves and long sleeves when working with this plant.

Interesting Facts About Agave Americana

  • The name “century plant” is misleading—Agave americana typically blooms in 10–30 years, not 100.
  • Indigenous peoples used its fibers to make rope, mats, and textiles.
  • The sap was historically used for medicinal purposes, though it can cause skin irritation.
  • Some species of agave are used to make mezcal and tequila, though Agave americana itself is not the primary variety used.
  • Native to Mexico but widely grown in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.
  • It can take decades to bloom, and once it flowers, the main plant typically dies.
  • Often used in landscaping due to its striking appearance and drought tolerance.

Is Agave Americana (The Century Plant) Right for You?

This plant is perfect if you want a stunning, low-maintenance, and drought-resistant addition to your garden. Its imposing size, striking foliage, and adaptability make it ideal for homeowners who love bold, sculptural plants for xeriscaping. If you live in a region with mild winters, full sun, and well-draining soil, Americana Silver Agave will thrive effortlessly in your landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Americana Silver Agave

How big does Americana Silver Agave get?

Americana Silver Agave is a large succulent that can reach 6 to 10 feet in size, with mature leaves up to 6 feet long. Its bold rosette of blue-green to gray-green leaves makes a dominant focal point, so give it plenty of room in open beds, rock gardens, or large landscapes.

How much sun does Americana Silver Agave need?

Americana Silver Agave thrives in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can handle some partial sun, but it will grow more slowly and may stretch. The sunniest, hottest spot in your yard is ideal.

How often should you water Americana Silver Agave?

Water Americana Silver Agave sparingly, about once every 2 to 3 weeks in hot, dry weather, and let the soil dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root problems. It is extremely drought tolerant once established.

What zones can Americana Silver Agave grow in?

Americana Silver Agave grows best in USDA zones 8 to 11. It can tolerate brief dips below freezing, but extended frost may damage the leaves. In cooler climates, cover it with frost cloth during cold snaps or grow it in a container you can move indoors.

What soil does Americana Silver Agave need?

Americana Silver Agave needs well-draining sandy or rocky soil. It tolerates poor soils well, but avoid heavy clay, which holds moisture and can lead to root rot. Planting on a slope or raised mound improves drainage in wetter regions and helps protect the roots.

How long does it take Agave americana to bloom?

Agave americana typically blooms after 10 to 30 years, not 100 as the name century plant suggests. When mature, it sends up a towering flower spike that can reach up to 30 feet tall with yellow-green blooms. The main plant dies after flowering but leaves offsets behind.

Can Americana Silver Agave grow in a container?

Yes, Americana Silver Agave can grow in oversized pots on patios, balconies, or entryways, which also slows its growth. Use a cactus mix and a heavy container with drainage holes. Containers make it easy to move the plant to shelter in cold climates. Water potted agaves only when the mix is completely dry, since containers can stay wet longer than expected.

Is Americana Silver Agave deer resistant?

Yes, Americana Silver Agave is deer resistant. Its sharp spines and tough leaves deter most animals and pests. Those same spines make it useful as a natural security planting along fences and property lines. Keep it well away from walkways, where the spiny leaf tips could snag passersby.

How do you care for Americana Silver Agave?

Americana Silver Agave needs very little care. Trim dead or damaged lower leaves to keep it tidy, and remove offsets if you do not want it to spread. Always wear gloves and long sleeves when working near it, since the spines are sharp and the sap can irritate skin.

Is Agave americana poisonous to dogs and cats?

Yes, Agave americana is considered toxic to dogs and cats if chewed, and its sap can cause skin irritation in people and pets. The sharp leaf tips are an injury risk too, so plant it away from play areas and pathways where pets and children run.
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