The Century Plant is a massive succulent of arid regions, growing a rosette of thick, spiny-tipped leaves for 10–30 years before sending up a towering flower stalk that can reach 30 feet. After blooming, the plant dies, leaving behind offshoots. Its flowers are critical nectar sources for lesser long-nosed bats and hummingbirds.
Best time to see a Century Plant
The best time to see a Century Plant is January–July, when about 66% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,455 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Century Plant? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Century Plant sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Century Plant?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.