Palmer's Century Plant

Agave palmeri

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asparagaceae
Genus:
Agave
Species:
Agave palmeri

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Shrub , Subshrub
Height:
4-6 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jun, jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
Yellow, Green
Evergreen Shrub:
Yes

Native Range

United States: Arizona, New Mexico

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Agavenema barberella, Evans' giant skipper (Agathymus evansi)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid regions, prefers desert-like conditions

Germination Information

Pre-treatment: None required

Establishment: Seed collection should take place in late November-December, when seed pods have split open but not yet lost all their seed. A specially designed apparatus with a long, extendable pole and a wide-mouth bucket is used for seed collection. The plant reproduces both by seed and vegetatively through rhizomatous clones or 'pups'.

Source: npn.rngr.net