Yucca smalliana

Overview

Yucca smalliana is a garden plant in the genus Yucca, part of the Q157167 family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Yucca smalliana grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H4.

About

Yucca smalliana is a Yucca species growing to about 1.2 m and valued for its summer flowering. It performs best in full sun and on sandy, loamy or clay soils that are well drained, including sites that stay moist but drain freely. It is rated H4 for UK gardens and also corresponds to USDA zones 8–11. Flowers appear from June to August.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Yucca flaccida

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 smalliana is a member of the Yucca genus that reaches roughly 1.2 m. It is grown principally for its seasonal floral display; expect blooms between June and August. The plant suits locations where it receives uninterrupted sun through the day. Place Yucca smalliana in full sun on a freely draining site; it will accept sandy, loamy or clay textures provided the soil does not remain waterlogged. For heavy clay, improve drainage by incorporating grit or coarse sand into the planting hole or by using a raised bed. The soil may be moist but must remain well drained. Its UK hardiness is H4 (average), and the equivalent USDA rating is zones 8–11, so choose a position sheltered from prolonged winter waterlogging and late frosts. Allow space for the 1.2 m mature height and use it where a sun-loving, upright element is required: a gravel bed, sunny border or a large, open container on a warm patio. Mulch around the root zone to moderate moisture fluctuations but keep mulch away from the crown. Remove spent flowering stems to tidy the plant after August; the main seasonal feature is the June–August flowering period.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Yucca

Sunlight: Full sun
Soil type: Sandy, Loamy, Clay
Soil moisture: Well-drained, Moist but well-drained
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Yucca smalliana size, habit and characteristics

Height: 1.2 m

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Yucca smalliana?

Yucca smalliana prefers full sun.

What soil does Yucca smalliana need?

Yucca smalliana 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 big does Yucca smalliana grow?

Yucca smalliana reaches a height of 1.2 m.

Is Yucca smalliana hardy in the UK?

Yucca smalliana has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

More in the Yucca genus

Browse all Yucca →