Agave americana subsp. variegata, commonly known as Variegated Century Plant or Variegated Agave, is a succulent plant native to arid and semi-arid regions of Mexico, often found in desert landscapes and on rocky outcrops. This slow-growing plant can reach a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) and a width of 4-8 feet (1.2-2.4 meters). It forms a rosette of stiff, sword-shaped leaves that are green with creamy yellow to white stripes along the margins, providing a striking variegated appearance. The plant is monocarpic, meaning it flowers once in its lifetime, usually after 10 years or more, with a tall spike of yellow flowers that are quite showy, blooming in the summer. After flowering, the plant typically dies, leaving behind offsets or "pups" that continue its growth.

The Variegated Century Plant is valued for its dramatic foliage and architectural form, making it a focal point in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and as a container specimen. It is drought-tolerant, requiring minimal water once established, and thrives in full sun. It prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils and is generally low-maintenance. However, gardeners should handle with care due to its sharp leaf tips and edges. While it is not prone to many pests or diseases, root rot can occur in poorly draining soils. Due to its potential to spread and become invasive in suitable climates, it is important to monitor its growth and remove offsets if necessary to control its spread.CC BY-SA 4.0