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AGM plants have been through a rigorous trial and assessment programme. They are:
This plant will provide nectar and pollen for bees and the many other types of pollinating insects.
It is included in an evolving list of plants carefully researched and chosen by RHS experts. Divided into 3 groups these lists, linked below, are maintained by a team of RHS staff and are reviewed annually.
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Other common names American aloe century plant
Mexican soap plant maguey
Synonyms Agave gracilispina
Family Asparagaceae
Genus Agave can be perennial or monocarpic succulents, forming rosettes of usually rigid, fleshy, spiny-edged leaves, with funnel-shaped flowers in racemes or panicles often much taller than the rosettes
Details A. americana is an evergreen perennial forming handsome rosettes of spiny-edged, grey-green leaves. Panicles to 8m in length, of greenish-yellow flowers 8cm in length, are produced only by old plants
Plant range S USA to Mexico
Foliage Evergreen
Habit Clump-forming
Hardiness
All ratings refer to the UK growing conditions unless otherwise stated. Minimum temperature ranges (in degrees C) are shown in brackets
H2
Full Sun
Aspect South-facing or East-facing
Exposure Sheltered
Loam
Sand
MoistureWell-drained
SoilLoam, Sand
pHAcid, Neutral
Ultimate height 1-1.5 metres
Ultimate spread 1-1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height 10-20 years
Cultivation Grow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in bright, filtered light. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter
Propagation Propagate by offsets taken in spring or autumn
Suggested planting locations and garden types Architectural City & Courtyard Gardens Coastal Patio & Container Plants Mediterranean Climate Plants
Pruning No pruning required
Pests May be attacked by scale insects
Diseases Generally disease free
RHS members can get exclusive individual advice from the RHS Gardening Advice team.
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