This plant is a very common sight over much of the Mediterranean and these are smallish ones. Along the edge of the leaf are stiff recurved black spines which can prove a real barrier to access if the plants are close together.

Seeking new flora in Spain earlier in the year, we passed among many A. americana growing in a huge plantation by the sea at Cabo de Gata. Each of us received stab wounds through casually brushing against the spines on the leaves.

The Century Plant, originally from Mexico, flowers once and then dies often after 25 years of growth but produces offspring vegetatively as well so in favourable conditions can populate and area and dominate the landscape.

Valley near Ano Stallos, Crete 6th April 2007

Added on 10th May 2007, updated 21st June 2008, updated 21st Feb 2010, updated March 2nd 2012, updated 25th December 2013