Today's image is courtesy of dinesh_valke@Flickr aka Dinesh from Mumbai, India (original image | Flickr BPotD Group Pool). I do encourage you to visit Dinesh's photographs on Flickr – much to learn about both plants and Mumbai! Thank you, Dinesh!
It seems like many Agave species have the common name of century plant, somewhat implying that the plants live for a hundred years. While it is indeed long-lived, a few decades is more the norm for this monocarpic species; it can take thirty years or more to flower, but upon eventual production of fruit, the entire plant begins to senesce.
More photographs of Agave americana are available from the Master Gardeners of the University of Arizona Pima County Coop Extension. The Plants for a Future database has details on the edible, medicinal and textile uses of this species.
I am not familiar with the term "evenutal", but am always willing to learn... The inflorescense of the Agave americana can reach epic proportions, soaring 30' to 40' or more. They look like asparagus spears as they grow, and after termination and hardening, make wonderful multi-storied or singular bird houses by careful cutting and drilling of appropriate sized holes. I have successfully transplanted "pups" to well drained soil and also into larger containers.
Agave americana 'Marginata' - Z9 - RHS Index of Garden Plants, Griffiths
Agave americana 'Marginata' - min. 5 degrees celsius/41 degrees fahrenheit - A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants, Brickell, Cole, Zuk
Spelling corrected - such are the mistakes that happen when you are writing at 1:30 at night after a party!
Agave americana is generally fully cold-hardy here in zone 9a (south Louisiana). As others have noted, they can grow to massive proportions; in the months prior to rare blooming, the inflorescence grows to at least 40' (11m) tall. Though the flowers are unspectacular, the plant itself can become quite statuesque. A very arresting sight.
For a moment I thought it was winter again, and we were seeing some of the great abstract photos from Daniel! Alas, Spring should be just around the corner.
Thank you very much, Daniel.