SafePlants

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wild century plant

Scientific Name: Agave neglecta

Family: Agavaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Wild Century Plant (Agave neglecta)

The Wild Century Plant, also known as Agave neglecta, is a fascinating plant with a variety of common names and interesting characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions "spiny leaves" in the context of Agave americana, a closely related species. Consider this when assessing potential hazards in areas where pets have access.
  • The "fanged leaves" of the tepextate variety of agave are referenced.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions "spiny leaves" in the context of Agave americana, a closely related species. Consider this when assessing potential hazards in areas where children have access.
  • The "fanged leaves" of the tepextate variety of agave are referenced.

Common Names

  • Wild Century Plant
  • American Aloe
  • Maguey

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Agave neglecta
  • Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Agavaceae)
  • Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: The text mentions "century plant. Mexican soap plant maguey. see more. Synonyms Agave gracilispina."
  • Nomenclatural Reference: Fl. S.E. U.S. Small. 289. 1903 22 Jul 1903

Distribution and Habitat

  • Original habitat of Agave is unknown, but it grows wild in Mexico on cultivated land and in pine woods.
  • Agave americana has naturalized in many regions, including Europe, South Africa, India, and Australia.
  • Specimens of Wild Century Plant have been gathered from many Florida counties.

Morphology and Growth Habits

  • The century plant spends most of its life as a rosette.
  • Some Agave species can grow to be 15 to 30 feet tall in the wild.

Ecological Role

  • Provides food and shelter for bees, butterflies, and birds.
  • Agave americana is naturalized in many regions and can potentially be considered invasive.

Quirky Facts

  • Some Agave species take 100 years to flower in the wild.
  • An old saying stipulates that when a friend gives you a plant from their yard for you to plant and enjoy in y yard, you must never thank them.
  • Agave potatorum (Tobal) is the most popular wild Agave for making Mezcal.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The tall agave attracts birds, bees, and flies when blooming.

Further Information

  • USF Herbarium: View specimen details.
  • Discover Life: Biology, natural history, ecology, identification and distribution of Agave neglecta.
  • Idaho Fish and Wildlife Information System Data and Maps.