Agave Lophantha, commonly known as Thorn-crested Agave or Century Plant, is a striking, low-maintenance succulent native to Texas and northern Mexico. Its unique rosette of sharp, symmetrical leaves with contrasting green and yellow stripes makes it a favorite for xeriscaping and container gardening.

Key Characteristics of Agave Lophantha

1. Appearance:

   • Features sword-like, stiff leaves with sharp, dark spines along the edges.
   • The leaves display a vibrant dark green center bordered by lighter green or yellow margins.
   • Ends of the leaves have a prominent, sharp spine.

2. Size:

   • Typically grows to about 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) in height and width.
   • Forms a compact rosette shape.

3. Growth Habit:

   • Slow-growing but produces offsets or pups around the base, creating clumps over time.
   • Produces a tall flower spike (up to 12 feet or 3.6 meters) with greenish flowers once it matures, though this occurs after many years.

Growing Conditions

1. Light:

   • Prefers full sun to partial shade.
   • Grows best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily but can tolerate some shade in hotter climates.

2. Soil:

   • Thrives in well-draining, sandy, or gravelly soil.
   • Tolerates poor soil conditions but requires excellent drainage to prevent root rot.

3. Watering:

   • Drought-tolerant; water sparingly.
   • Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
   • Overwatering can cause root rot and leaf discoloration.

4. Temperature:

   • Hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
   • Tolerates temperatures down to 15°F (-9°C) for short periods when mature.
   • In colder climates, it should be grown in containers and moved indoors during frost.

5. Humidity:

   • Prefers low to moderate humidity.
   • Thrives in arid or semi-arid environments.

Care and Maintenance

1. Fertilizing:

   • Requires minimal fertilization.
   • Feed with a cactus or succulent fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) for optimal growth.