AGAVE VIVIPARA

Botanical Name: Agave vivipara
Common Names: Century Plant, Caribbean Agave
Mature Size: 2–4 feet (0.6–1.2 meters) in height, 3–5 feet (1–1.5 meters) in spread
Light Requirements: Full sun
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; tolerant of sandy and rocky conditions
Water Needs: Low; very drought-tolerant once established
Foliage: Broad, stiff, sword-like green leaves often edged with reddish spines
Flowers: Tall flowering stalk (up to 15 feet / 5 meters) with greenish-yellow blooms; produces bulbils (plantlets) instead of seeds
Growth Rate: Moderate

Uses:

• Ornamental Plant: Agave vivipara is prized for its bold, architectural form and rich green foliage, making it a striking accent in tropical, desert, and coastal garden designs.

• Xeriscaping: Excellent for low-water gardens, especially in warm climates where its hardiness and structure stand out.

• Propagation: Known for producing numerous bulbils on its flower stalk, allowing for easy propagation and garden expansion.

Benefits:

• Drought Resistance: Well-suited for arid environments, needing minimal supplemental watering.

• Low Maintenance: Strong, pest-resistant, and capable of thriving with little upkeep.

• Wildlife Attraction: Flowering spikes attract birds, bees, and other pollinators.

• Fast Multiplication: Its viviparous nature makes it one of the easiest agaves to propagate and share.

Agave vivipara is a vigorous and attractive succulent known for its ease of propagation and impressive form. Perfect for dry gardens or coastal landscapes, it provides lasting structure and a lush, resilient presence in any sun-filled space.