About
A slow-growing, evergreen shrub to 1.6m tall usually seen in cultivation with a single crown of leaves; a small trunk may form as the plant ages. Spikes of creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers sometimes shaded purple-red are borne above the foliage in summer and may be followed by edible, banana-shaped fruit. The blue-green, sword-shaped leaves 30-100cm long are tipped with a sharp point, curve inwards and edged with small threads.
About the genus
Yucca can be evergreen perennials, shrubs or trees, with dense or loose rosettes of stiff, sword-shaped leaves and tall panicles of bell-shaped flowers
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, City and courtyard gardens
Native toSW USA, New Mex.
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 47866,cladrastis-hirsuta,Cladrastis hirsuta,,A rewarding Cladrastis
Care notes
CultivationGrow in very well drained soil in full sun; protect from excessive winter rainfall. See yucca cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required, but dead leaves and spent flower spikes can be removed to improve appearance
PropagationPropagate by seed or remove rooted suckers
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids on flower spikes and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to leaf spot