A 'Burke's Backyard' viewer sent in a photo of an unusual plant in flower in their front yard. The plant is Agave attenuata or the century plant.

Details

Common name: Century plant. The common name has been given to this plant because it is said to take years to flower and after doing so it dies.
Botanic name: Agave attenuata. The genus name Agave comes from the Greek meaning admirable, referring to the handsome appearance of the plant in flower.
Climate: Native to Mexico this plant will grow in most parts of Australia.

Good points:

• Creamy coloured flowers are produced after about 10 years' growth (although this varies with the location of the plant).
• Many agaves are spiky, dangerous plants however the foliage of this species is non-spiky, making it welcome in any garden.
• It has broad, grey green leaves 50-70cm (20-28") long.
• After flowering the flower spike which grows to about 1.5m (5') will die but suckers from the new plant will form at the bottom of the old plant meaning it will continue to grow in your garden.
• The plant forms seeds readily so could be grown from seed.
  

Uses:

• Interesting succulent in the garden especially if used as a feature plant.
• Plant them in a terracotta pot and they will last for years and add texture to the garden.
  

Likes:

• Grow in open sunny position in a well-drained soil.
• Protection from frost.
  

Getting started:

Although Agave attenuata is one of the most common agaves grown in Australia, it will be difficult to find in nurseries. A 20cm (8") pot costs around $17. Also sold as stump cuttings which root readily and are guaranteed to grow. Look for it in a friend's garden or at the local fete.

Copyright CTC Productions 2006