American aloe (Agave americana) ah-GAH-vay ah-mer-ih-KAY-nah Synonyms:  Agave altissima Genus:  Agave This plant has a rosette of broad sword-like, succulent, gray-green leaves. It provides a statuesque presence for sunny dry sites and under glass. It's also a classic plant for urns, thanks to the architectural splendor of its simple form. Noteworthy Characteristics:  Plants die after flowering and fruiting, but leave behind off-sets to create new plants. Lethal-looking, dark needlelike spines at leaf tips and along margins encourage a cautious approach. Propagation:  Remove offsets in spring or fall. Problems:  Scale insects and mealybugs on young growth; leaf blights and root rots in poorly drained soil.

Overview

Height 3 ft. to 6 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Moderate Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Summer Flower Color White Uses Container, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Style Desert Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Cacti and Succulents