Overview
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' is a evergreen shrub in the genus Yucca, part of the Q157167 family. It typically grows around 1.8 m tall. Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include borders, rock gardens and xeriscaping. It is native to Southeastern United States.
About
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' is an evergreen shrub notable for its variegated, sword‑like foliage and compact stature, typically reaching about 1.8 m. It produces mildly fragrant flower panicles in mid‑summer (June to August). The cultivar prefers full sun and freely draining sandy or loamy soils but will tolerate moist yet well‑drained conditions. Plants are H6 hardy in the UK and are mildly toxic if ingested.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Yucca gloriosa
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 gloriosa 'Variegata' is a variegated cultivar of a southeastern United States native evergreen shrub, grown for its conspicuous leaves and summer flowering. It normally reaches around 1.8 m and carries the cultivar's lighter‑edged foliage that remains visible through the year. Place the plant in a sunny, sheltered spot; exposure to full sun brings out the best leaf contrast. Soils should be sandy or loamy and drain freely — the plant tolerates some moisture but dislikes waterlogged ground. In UK hardiness terms it is H6 (very hardy), so it will withstand typical winter conditions across most of Britain when given appropriate drainage. Flowering occurs from June to August, and the flower panicles are mildly fragrant. Use Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' where architectural form and year‑round leaf pattern are wanted: mixed borders, rock gardens and dry, gravelly beds suit it well, and it fits xeriscaping schemes where water use is reduced. Take care if children or pets may chew the foliage, as the plant is mildly toxic if ingested. Expect a noticeable mid‑summer floral display that complements the variegated leaves.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Yucca
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
- Exposure
- Full sun
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Evergreen shrub
- Height
- 1.8 m
- Suggested uses
- Borders, rock gardens, xeriscaping
- Native to
- Southeastern United States
- Fragrance
- Mildly fragrant flowers
- Toxicity
- Mildly toxic if ingested
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'
- Cultivation
- Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering
- Pruning
- Remove dead leaves and flower stalks to maintain appearance
- Propagation
- Offsets, seed
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'?
Prefers well-drained soil; drought tolerant once established; avoid overwatering.
Where is the best place to plant Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'?
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' prefers full sun. It suits full sun positions.
What soil does Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' need?
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' grows best in sandy and loamy soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained to moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'?
Remove dead leaves and flower stalks to maintain appearance.
How big does Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' grow?
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' reaches a height of 1.8 m.
Is Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' hardy in the UK?
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'?
Offsets, seed.
Is Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' toxic?
Mildly toxic if ingested.
More in the Yucca genus
- Yucca carnerosanagiant Spanish dagger
- Yucca elatasoap tree
- Yucca filamentosaneedle palm
- Yucca filamentosa 'Elegantissima'Adam's Needle
- Yucca filamentosa 'Excalibur'
- Yucca filamentosa 'Rosenglocke'Adam's Needle
- Yucca filamentosa 'Schneefichte'Adam's needle 'Schneefichte'
- Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'Variegated Adam's Needle