Agave americana 'Mediopicta', commonly known as the Gold-striped Century Plant, is a striking and robust succulent renowned for its dramatic architectural form and bold variegated foliage. This impressive plant features large rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves adorned with vibrant golden-yellow central stripes, making it a standout specimen in arid and semi-arid landscapes as well as large containers. While it carries the name "Century Plant," it typically lives for several decades before flowering.
 
Key Features of Agave americana 'Mediopicta' (Gold-striped Century Plant)
Large Rosettes: Forms substantial rosettes of thick, rigid leaves that can reach impressive sizes over time.
Bold Variegation: Each leaf features a prominent, broad stripe of golden-yellow down the center, contrasting beautifully with the blue-green margins.
Spiny Margins and Terminal Spine: The leaf margins are armed with sharp, hooked teeth, and each leaf terminates in a formidable, dark-colored spine.
Architectural Form: The symmetrical rosette and striking coloration create a dramatic and architectural presence.
Monocarpic Flowering: After many years (typically decades), the plant sends up a towering flower stalk that can reach several meters in height, bearing numerous yellowish-green flowers. The main rosette dies after flowering.
Produces Offsets (Suckers): Younger plants often produce offsets or "pups" around the base, which can be used for propagation.
 
Care for Your Agave americana 'Mediopicta' (Gold-striped Century Plant)
Light: Thrives in full sun, which intensifies the variegation and promotes compact growth. It can tolerate some light shade, but vibrant coloration may be reduced.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A sandy or gravelly soil mix is ideal. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
Watering: Highly drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. 1 Reduce watering significantly during the cooler, dormant months. Overwatering is a primary cause of failure.  
1. www.succulentsonline.com.au
www.succulentsonline.com.au
Temperature: Tolerates a wide range of temperatures but is generally hardy in warmer climates. Protect from prolonged freezing temperatures, especially when young or in containers.
Humidity: Adapts well to low humidity and does not require special humidity considerations.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Agave americana 'Mediopicta' (Gold-striped Century Plant)
Removing Dead Leaves: As the plant matures, lower leaves will naturally dry out. These can be carefully removed to maintain a tidy appearance and improve air circulation. Use caution due to the sharp spines.
Handling with Care: Exercise caution when handling this agave due to its sharp marginal teeth and terminal spines. Wear thick gloves and protective clothing.
Infrequent Repotting (for container plants): Container-grown agaves are slow-growing and do not need frequent repotting. Repot only when the plant has significantly outgrown its container.
Monitoring for Pests and Diseases: Generally pest and disease resistant, but occasionally can be susceptible to scale or agave snout weevil. Inspect regularly.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Offsets (Suckers): The most common and easiest method. Carefully detach the offsets that grow around the base of the mother plant once they have developed their own roots. Allow the cut surfaces to callus over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Seed: Propagation from seed is possible but slow and can be variable. Seeds require warm temperatures and well-draining conditions to germinate.
 
Agave americana 'Mediopicta', the Gold-striped Century Plant, is a magnificent and low-maintenance succulent that provides dramatic visual interest with its large, boldly variegated rosettes. Its architectural form and drought tolerance make it a striking addition to a variety of landscapes and large container settings. While the wait for its towering bloom is long, the plant offers decades of impressive foliage.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.