About
Eventually forms a tall, sparsely-branched evergreen tree but is usually seen in cultivation with a single, short trunk. The stiff, spine-tipped leaves, up to 50cm long, have peeling, thread-like edges and are arranged in a dense rosette. Mature plants produce large, hanging clusters of creamy, bell-shaped flowers.
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
AspectWest-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeConservatory Greenhouse, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants
Native toMexico
ToxicitySkin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in very well-drained soil in full sun in a sheltered position, or grow under glass in gritty compost. Needs to be kept almost dry over winter. See yucca cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required, but dead leaves can be removed to improve appearance. Overlarge plants can be cut back in late spring and will reshoot from the trunk
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