Two large century plants spotted towering over Texas Avenue
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KBTX) – If you’ve recently driven along Texas Avenue, you may have spotted two massive century plants in full bloom in front of Harvey Washbangers.
Century plants are part of the agave family. They got their name because of how long it takes those tall stalks to grow, but the “century” title is actually a misnomer.
“The legend is it’s 100 years, so a century. In actuality, it can be as much as several decades, up to about 40 years,” Mike Arnold, Director of the Gardens at Texas A&M University, said.
But this particular colony has been growing and blooming at a fast rate.
“As long as I can remember, it’s never not been bloomed,” Gus Alvarez, beer manager at Harvey Washbangers, said.
It’s no secret those plants are tall, their stalks can reach heights over 20 feet with the proper growing conditions. The two stand around 15-20 feet tall, and tower above passersby.
Century plants aren’t just interesting to look at, the flowers and fruit they produce attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
Two large century plants spotted towering over Texas Avenue
“This one actually has a small lily-like flower, kind of yellowish green, and it’s an important plant for pollinators in its native environment,” Arnold said.
Arnold says we’ll enjoy the sight for at least a few months. These plants die after blooming, but several baby century plants called “pups” can be seen sprouting. They’ll continue the cycle of the colony.
“Texas has crazy weather, and they don’t look damaged or anything at all. Like, they look like they’re blooming great,” Alvarez said.
Just two years ago KBTX reported on another century plant blooming in the same spot.
