Overview
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' is a evergreen shrub in the genus Yucca, part of the Asparagaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and xeriscaping. It is native to Southeastern United States.
About the genus
Yucca is both the scientific name and common name for a genus native to North America from Panama to southern Canada. It contains 50 accepted species. In addition to yucca, they are also known as Adam's needle or Spanish-bayonet.
Wikipedia contributors, "Yucca", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Yucca
In the garden
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' is a variegated form of Adam's needle, a plant native to the southeastern United States. As an evergreen shrub it keeps its foliage year-round and usually reaches around 1.2 m, providing a strong structural element in many garden designs. Position this yucca in full sun on freely draining soil; it tolerates sandy, loamy and clay substrates provided drainage is good and soil is not waterlogged. It prefers a moist but well-drained condition rather than permanently wet ground. Rated H7 in the UK, it is fully hardy and will withstand typical winter conditions across the country when sited in a sunny, sheltered spot. Use 'Variegata' in mixed borders, rock gardens or dry, low-water schemes where its variegated leaves and upright habit can be read at a distance. Take care with planting where children or pets might sample foliage, because the plant is toxic if ingested. Flowering occurs from June to August, when tall stalks topped with cream, pendant blooms rise above the leaf rosette to create strong seasonal accents.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Yucca
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Evergreen shrub
- Height
- 1.2 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, rock gardens, xeriscaping
- Native to
- Southeastern United States
- Toxicity
- Toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; minimal watering needed
- Pruning
- Remove old flower stalks and damaged leaves as needed
- Propagation
- Offsets, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'?
Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; minimal watering needed.
Where is the best place to plant Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'?
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' need?
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'?
Remove old flower stalks and damaged leaves as needed.
How big does Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' grow?
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' reaches a height of 1.2 m.
Is Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' hardy in the UK?
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'?
Offsets, seed.
Is Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata' toxic?
Toxic if ingested.
From the Fenn Plants journal
- Notes on DaffodilsWhen to plant daffodil bulbs in the UK, how deep, how to naturalise them in grass, why daffodils stop flowering (“blindness”), and why you should never mix cut daffodils with other flowers.
- Keeping Your NerveHow to garden through a heatwave — the best time to water, why deep soaks beat daily sprinkles, caring for pots and vulnerable plants, and why you can let the lawn go brown.
- Made to LastHow to clean, store and protect garden pots and planters — the frost-proof vs frost-resistant difference, winter care for terracotta and ceramic, and how to reuse a broken pot.
More in the Yucca genus
- Yucca elatasoap tree

- Yucca filamentosaneedle palm

- Yucca filamentosa 'Elegantissima'Adam's Needle

- Yucca filamentosa 'Rosenglocke'Adam's Needle

- Yucca filamentosa 'Schneefichte'Adam's needle 'Schneefichte'

- Yucca filamentosa var. concavaneedle palm

- Yucca flaccidaAdam's needle

- Yucca flaccida 'Ivory'needle palm 'Ivory'
