Mitis Century Plant

(Agave mitis)

Mitis Century Plant (Agave mitis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Agave mitis, commonly known as Mitis Century Plant, is an evergreen succulent native to the high-altitude, semi-arid regions of Central and Northeastern Mexico, where it thrives on rocky slopes and in pine-oak forests. It forms dense rosettes of blue-green to yellow-green, fleshy leaves that can reach up to 60 cm (2 feet) in length. The leaves are armed with soft brown spines, which are less aggressive compared to those of other agave species. When it blooms, which is rare and typically after many years, it produces a flowering stalk up to 2.5 m (8 feet) tall. The flowers are green, closely appressed against the stem, forming a narrow column that is more compact than most other agave species, and each flower can be up to 60 mm (2.4 inches) long.

The Mitis Century Plant is valued for its sculptural foliage and low maintenance requirements, making it a popular choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a focal point in drought-tolerant landscapes. It is also suitable for container gardening. While it tolerates full sun or part shade, it requires low to medium amounts of water and well-drained soils to prevent root rot. It is generally free of serious pests and diseases but can be susceptible to agave snout weevil. Due to its slow growth and infrequent flowering, it is not invasive and poses little threat to natural habitats outside its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to high-altitude, semi-arid regions and pine-oak forests in Central and Northeastern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Agave celsii, Agave mitis, Agave rupicola, Agave celsii var. albicans, Agave albicans, Agave micracantha, Agave ehrenbergii, Agave bouchei, Agave mitis var. mitis

GBIF Accepted Name: Agave mitis Mart.