Agave americana

It is native in tropical and subtropical areas of the American continent. Despite its features, it has well adapted to the Mediterranean area. The general name derives from the Greek "agavos" = magnificent, marvelous. It is a juicy plant with fleshy leaves containing many fibres. It is a long-lived plant, 10-15 years, blooming just once, afterwards it dies leaving many basal shoots, which grow as single plants. It is not only appreciated for its beauty as an ornamental plant, but also for its many ways of use: hammocks and hats (panama) are made of its leaves, due to its fibres, and worldwide famous beverages are made of this plant, such as Pulque, Mezcal, and Tequila, which is named after the city, where it has been distilled for the first time. The fibre (called sisal), extracted from the leaves of the agave sisalana, is used for ropes, baskets, hats, carpets and other handcrafted products. Furthermore, the plant is used to treat burns..