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| Photo by Kelly Rausch |
What better way to celebrate the Arizona Centennial than with a Century plant? This plant, the Golden-Flowered Agave, shoots out the most amazing 20 foot stalk after about 25 years (less in landscaped yards). The century plant then dies, usually replaced by a new plant formed by the root system. Unlike the similar aloe plants, the juice of this plant is irritating to the skin. Agaves can be distinguished from aloes by the spines at the end of each spatula-shaped "leaf." American Indians used the plant for fibers, medicines, food and beverages (mescal or tequila). This huge stalk can be roasted like a giant asparagus spear. The stalk can grow 1-2 feet a day!!! Kelly said, "
Every time I see one of these plants, I think of Jack and the Beanstalk."
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