Description

A stunning and striking architectural plant that suits modern garden designs, or desert and cactus styles, especially when planted up and displayed in a metallic pot. This tough succulent really thrives in neglect and is surprisingly hardy in the UK – we have had them for 5+ years outdoors all year and are fine if you keep them very dry. It is a striking specimen, very slow growing over here, but long lasting. Also known as the Century Plant as it was thought to flower every hundred years, it may actually flower after 20 -30 years – unleashing huge 3-5m tall flower spikes in a last act of bravado, as after flowering they die. However, there are normally lots of ‘pups’ around the sides by then, which immediately take its place. Grow in a very free-draining mix with plenty of sand or gravel (up to 50% mix with compost). Once potted they should be fine for 5-10 years… Warning – the leaves have very spiky tips, and some smaller ones on leaf margins. Handle with care. Avoid places where children or pets may brush against them.