Variegated Century Plant
Agave americana 'Marginata'. USDA zone 8a-11b, hardy to 10F. Lives: Large planter, back porch, front porch.
About this Variegated Century Plant
Agave americana 'Marginata', commonly known as the Variegated Century Plant, forms an impressive rosette of thick, sword-shaped leaves boasting bold, creamy-yellow stripes along the margins and silvery-green to blue-green centers. Mature plants can reach 6–8ft tall and spread 6–10ft wide, with each leaf stretching up to 6ft long. Its foliage is arranged in a spiral pattern, creating a dramatic and architectural presence in the landscape. The leaves are edged with small spines and tipped with a sharp terminal spine, so placement away from walkways is recommended.
However, its performance in Oklahoma's climate has raised some concerns. The plants have been taking significant damage during hard freezes, suggesting that year-round outdoor cultivation might not be sustainable in this region. If these winter survival challenges persist, alternative, more cold-hardy agave species may need to be considered as replacements for permanent outdoor installations.