Oak Island man says unique plant is message from late wife

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) —  It is a plant that usually grows on the West Coast and one that blooms only once in it’s lifetime. It is called the Century Plant also known as the Agave Americana, it is a rare sight to see especially across the Cape Fear.

But for one Oak Island man, Gary Peterson, it is much more than just a plant.

“It’s another living extension of her life,” Peterson said.

For Peterson this specific Century Plant is a possible message from his late wife.

“It may be. God works in mysterious ways. So it very well may be,” Peterson said.

In 2002, Peterson’s late wife Vangie planted the seed and 15 years later, it is finally starting to grow. Growing higher each day right outside the Oak Island Senior Center and Crafts Shop.

It stands taller than the street light, but that does not mean it is done growing. The Century Plant can grow up to at least 30 feet tall, if not bigger.

“We’re so excited to have this century plant growing at the center,” Oak Island Senior Center President, Angela Zarcaro said.

Peterson’s wife passed away suddenly in November and the fact the plant recently sprouted brings back fond memories.

“Well we all know that she is in heaven. She was a wonderful person. And that it may be God’s message to the island and to the world,” Peterson said.

The two were married for nearly 40 years and neither of them had ever seen a Century Plant bloom.

“I’m only sorry that she did not live to see it,” Peterson said.

But when the time comes, Peterson will get the chance to see the plant bloom for the both of them.

“It’s very exciting. It’s very exciting because we’ve always been wondering if we we’re going to live to see it. And now I’m hopefully going to live to see it,” Peterson said.

The century plant takes anywhere from 10 to 20 years to grow depending on the weather. After it blooms it dies leaving behind seeds for the next batch of century plants to grow.