American Century Plant (Agave americana)

How much light does an American Century Plant need?

Indoors, this succulent needs direct sun to do well. A south- or west-facing window that gets several hours of direct sunlight each day is the best spot for it. Outdoors, it prefers full sun but can also handle light shade. Full sun outdoors means six or more hours of direct sunlight.

• Light: Direct sun¹

How often to water an American Century Plant

Dry soil suits this plant best. Let the soil dry out fully before you water again. It is suited to dry, sandy soil, and extra moisture is not something it needs. Water sparingly, and avoid letting the soil stay wet for long periods. Overall, this is a low-water plant.

• Water: Dry²

Best soil for an American Century Plant

Good drainage is essential for this plant's soil. It is a succulent, and it prefers conditions on the dry side. In the wild, it is typically found growing in dry, sandy soil. Poorly drained or overly wet soil can lead to root rot. No cited source on this page states a soil pH range for it. A dry, sandy mix suits it well. Drainage like this is one of its most basic soil needs.

• Soil drainage: Well drained²

Temperature and humidity

No cited source on this page gives a minimum temperature for this plant. It is hardy outdoors in USDA zones 8a through 11b. Indoors, it thrives in the low humidity typical of most homes, especially in winter. It does not need extra humidity from a humidifier. Zone 8a marks roughly the coldest conditions it is listed as hardy for outdoors. Zone 11b marks the warmest end of that hardiness range. Many homes naturally have the kind of low humidity this plant is comfortable with.

• Humidity: Low³

Fertilizing an American Century Plant

Feed this plant once a month during the growing season. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-5 blend. Stop feeding once the growing season ends, and start again only when the next growing season begins. A monthly feeding schedule matches its active growing period.

• Fertilizer: Monthly in the growing season¹

How to propagate an American Century Plant

You can propagate this plant from seed. It can also be propagated by division. Removing and replanting its offsets is a third method. All three are documented ways to start a new plant from this species. Seed, division, and offsets each work as a propagation method for it. No single method is named as the only option for this plant.

• Propagation: Seed, division and offsets^2,2

Common problems

Agave weevil can be a problem for this plant. Slugs and snails may also damage its foliage. Root rot can occur, especially in soil that stays poorly drained or overly wet. Watch for agave weevil activity, along with slug and snail damage to the leaves.

• Common pests: agave weevil, slugs and snails^2,2
• Common diseases: root rot²

Questions and answers

How much light does this plant need?

It needs direct sun indoors, so a spot with several hours of bright, direct light each day is ideal, like a window facing south or west.

How often should you water this plant?

Let the soil dry out completely before watering again, since this plant prefers dry conditions. Make sure the soil drains well, because wet soil can lead to root rot.

Is this plant toxic to cats and dogs?

This plant is toxic to both cats and dogs. In cats, signs include a bad taste in the mouth and a mild stomach upset, while dogs are more likely to show skin irritation and stomach upset.