Agave americana
Agave americana
Agave americana, commonly known as the American aloe or Century plant, is a species of flowering plant in the Agavaceae family. It is native to Mexico, the United States, and South America, but has been naturalized in many other regions worldwide.
Pronunciation
Agave americana: /əˈɡɑːvi əˈmɛrɪkənə/
Etymology
The genus name Agave is derived from the Greek word 'agauos', which means 'noble' or 'admirable'. The species name americana refers to its American origin.
Description
Agave americana is a large, perennial plant with rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that can reach up to 2 meters in length. The leaves are gray-green and have a spiny margin and a heavy spike at the tip. The plant produces a tall, branched stalk, loaded with yellow flowers, in the later years of its life.
Cultivation and uses
Agave americana is often cultivated as an ornamental plant. It is also used in the production of pulque, a traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage, and mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage. The fibers of the plant are used in rope and twine production.
Related terms
- Agavaceae: The plant family to which Agave americana belongs.
- Pulque: A traditional Mexican alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of various agave species, including Agave americana.
- Mezcal: A distilled alcoholic beverage made from the cooked heart of various agave species, including Agave americana.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Agave americana
- Wikipedia's article - Agave americana
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