Century Plant   Agave americana    
Agave family — Agavaceae

Also known as:
Maguey

Slides: (click for larger view)

There are many species of agaves or "century plants" in Texas. This one, one of the largest, is native to South Texas but widely planted elsewhere. Agaves have long been very important to humans, providing fiber, food, and beverages.They are called "century plants" because they grow for many years before they bloom (and then die)--but not a century!

Dried Specimens: (click for larger view)

Flowering Months: June, July

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