Agave americana 'Marginata', the Variegated Century Plant, is one of the most instantly recognised of all the Agaves, familiar to most people from holidays in the Mediterranean. Although not as hardy as the non-variegated form, Agave americana 'Marginata' will survive outdoors in some parts of the UK - particularly in the warmer south and south-west and drier eastern regions providing it has perfect drainage. A raised bed and a substrate consisting largely of grit and gravel is ideal. In needs to be kept as dry as possible and in sudden spells of very cold weather with long extended periods of sub-zero temperatures it is sensible to cover in fleece. A warm, sheltered and sunny aspect is needed. Many grow it in large terracotta containers as a precaution to ensure survival and although it looks great in a container it can never grow to anything resembling its full size which is very large indeed. Often listed as Agave americana' Variegata'.