Toumey’s Century Plant

(Agave toumeyana)

Toumey’s Century Plant (Agave toumeyana)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 17" - 24"
High Temp. 90°F - 102°F
Low Temp. 30°F - 38°F

Summary

Agave toumeyana, commonly known as Toumey’s Century Plant, is an evergreen succulent native to the Sonoran Desert in the Southwestern United States, particularly Arizona. It is a small agave, typically reaching a height of 0.3 feet (0.09 meters) and a width of 0.4 feet (0.1 meters). This plant forms rosettes of narrow, spiny leaves that are green with white markings and can produce a tall flower spike with yellow blooms, although flowering is infrequent and the plant may die after blooming, as is typical for many agaves.

Toumey’s Century Plant is valued for its drought tolerance and striking foliage, which adds architectural interest to rock gardens, xeriscapes, and container plantings. It is well-suited for cultivation in arid environments, requiring minimal water once established. It thrives in full sun or part shade and prefers well-draining soils. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small spaces where a dramatic, low-water-use plant is desired.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Sonoran Desert in the Southwestern United States, particularly Arizona

Other Names

Common Names: Toumey Agave

Scientific Names: Agave toumeyana

GBIF Accepted Name: Agave toumeyana Trel.