Agave americana

Our lovely native agave, frequently used as a centerpiece of gorgeous xeriscaping projects. Grows up to 6 feet tall, and at the end of its lifespan (10-30 years), makes a dramatic flower spike up to 25 feet tall! Likes full sun, sandy/gravelly, well drained soils, and is extremely heat and drought tolerant. The flower stem produces a liquid called aguamiel if cut before blooming, and the liquid can be fermented to make pulque. Fibers from the thick leaves have been used to make rope and matting, and for leather embroidery. Agave americana is also one of the varieties used to make mezcal and tequila.