Agave americana “death bloom”

An extraordinary bloom is unfolding at the Conservatory! In early March 2026, our Agave americana—commonly known as the Century Plant—began its rare flowering process in the Desert Biome.

This moment is especially remarkable because once the plant finishes blooming, it will gradually decline and eventually die, requiring removal. Over the coming weeks, its towering flower stalk will continue to grow and transform.

Don’t miss your chance to witness this once-in-a-lifetime bloom before it’s gone! Be sure to follow us on social media on Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date progress.

April 7, 2026 update:

Buds are starting to form! Plan your visit soon. The Desert Biome is included in General Admission and with a Franklin Park Conservatory Membership.

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Agave americana Fun Facts

The common name “Century Plant” does not mean the plant will live for 100 years. The typical lifespan is 10-30 years.
The Agave americana is classified as being monocarpic, meaning after they bloom, the main plant dies leaving behind it’s offsets, or baby plants.
The fast growing flower spike of Agave americana can reach anywhere from 30 to over 50 feet in height and has been observed to grow 6-9 inches per day.
Indigenous groups used to use Agave americana for food, to make rope, cord and use the sharp tips as needles.
Agave americana is used to make Mexican spirits, such as tequila.
The emerging flower spike of Agave americana closely resembles a shoot of asparagus. Oddly enough, this plant belongs in the Asparagus family (Asparagaceae).
The Agave americana can grow to 6′ in height and 10-12′ in width.
Like many other succulents, the sap of Agave americana can cause severe skin irritation.
The sap from several agave species, including Agave americana is used to make “Agave Syrup” or “Agave Nectar”, a low-glycemic sweetner.
The flowers of Agave americana are pollinated by hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and bats.
Agave americana contains a substance called saponins, which can be beaten into a foamy substance used for washing.
Both the flowers and flower buds of Agave american are edible. They are boiled or sauteed and added to dishes like scrambled eggs, soups and salads.
Agave americana is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States (Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico) and has naturalized in many parts of the world.