Jul 24, 2026 - Culture

See Phipps' rare agave "death bloom"

Chrissy Suttles

Split image: left shows variegated green-and-yellow ribbon leaves in a glass greenhouse; right shows a tall yucca-like plant with tufted clusters against a blue sky. — This bloom outgrew the glasshouse! Photos: Chrissy Suttles/Axios

One of Phipps' oldest residents is showing off before the curtain falls for good.

Why it matters: The conservatory's 50- to 60-year-old Agave americana, or "century plant," is in the midst of its only bloom — a spectacular event sometimes called a "death bloom" that signals the end of the plant's life cycle.

The intrigue: The flowering stalk soared so high (20-30 feet) that Phipps removed a pane of glass from the Desert Room roof to accommodate it. As the plant declines, new "pups" already growing at its base will carry on its legacy.

Phipps will soon remove the plant from the glasshouse.

Fun fact: Phipps is showcasing three rare agave blooms simultaneously — Agave americana, blue agave and Thorncrest agave — each flowering only once in its lifetime.

What's next: The plant is expected to remain in the Desert Room for the next month or two until it's removed and composted.

If you go: Adiós Agave Night at Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is 5–10pm Friday with agave-inspired cocktails and mocktails, horticulture talks and free succulents for the first 300 guests.

📍1 Schenley Dr., Oakland. The event is included with the price of admission. Tickets available here.

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See Phipps' rare agave "death bloom"

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