ORIGIN

Mexico

COMMON NAME

Century plant

BOTANICAL NAME

Agave americana

Photo source: DOC Northland 8B-8

IDENTIFICATION

Succulent rosette of large spear-like leaves up to 2 m x 150 mm with sharp hooks along margins and a spiny point. Flowering stalk 1-2 m high, flowers yellow.

HABITATS

Coastal, steep cliffs. Garden escape. Thrives in dry conditions.

IMPACT TO BIOTA AND ECOSYSTEMS

Has the potential to modify coastal areas.

DISPERSAL ROUTES, VECTORS, INFESTATION SOURCES

Garden outcast. Takes 10-15 years to flower then produces a crop of new plants around the base of the dead plant.

MANAGEMENT

Physical Control
Dig out.

Disposal

Chemical Control

Biological Control

Recommended Approach
Dig out whenever possible.

FURTHER COMMENT