Century Plant (Agave utahensis eborispina)

Family: Agavaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Agave utahensis eborispina is an evergreen Perennial growing to 4 m (13ft) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Moths, bats. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Roots/Tubers, Sap/Syrup

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

rich in saccharine matter and can be eaten when baked. — The heart of the plant is very rich in saccharine matter and can be eaten when baked.; Sweet and delicious, but rather fibrous.; It is partly below ground.; Can be dried for future use or soaked in water to produce a flavourful beverage.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry stony limestone slopes, 1000 - 1500 metres. Calcareous outcrops with desert scrub at elevations of 1100 - 1900 metres in California and Nevada. (Zone 8)