SafePlants

Agave asperrima (Rough Century Plant)

This page provides information about Agave asperrima, commonly known as Rough Century Plant. It is often found as Agave scabra in commercial nurseries. This agave is a medium-sized succulent appreciated for its architectural form and drought tolerance.

Considerations for Pets

• Spines: The leaves have strongly toothed margins and are tipped with spines.
• Sharp Edges: The leaves are described as having rough serrated edges.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Agave asperrima Jacobi
• Common Names: Rough Century Plant, Rough-Leafed Century Plant, Rough Agave, Desert Century Plant, Desert Agave, Maguey spero, Maguey sbari, Mckelvey agave, McKelvey's century plant, mescal ceniza
• Synonyms: Agave scabra

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to: Texas, Coahuila, Durango, Zacatecas, and Baja California
• Habitat: Deserts, particularly in the west and southwest USA.

Morphological Characteristics

• Size: A medium-sized agave growing to about 4 feet tall.
• Leaves: Thick, blue-gray leaves, approximately 3 feet long and 4 to 6 inches wide, with undulating and strongly toothed margins.
• Growth Habit: Develops new plants at the base as it matures.

Ecological Role

• Agave americana, a related species, is listed as a pest plant in New Zealand. While the text doesn't explicitly state this for Agave asperrima, it's important to be aware of the potential invasiveness of agave species.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "century plant" is misleading, as these plants typically bloom much sooner than 100 years.

Further Information

• Plant Delights Nursery is listed as a source for purchasing Agave scabra (synonymous with Agave asperrima).
• The PLANTS Web site and Discover Life are mentioned as resources for information on Agave asperrima.