Plant of the Month February 2018: Common Yucca

Common Yucca in bloom. Photo by H. Zell

Yucca are usually associated with arid regions and many different kinds are found there. Common Yucca (Yucca filamentosa) is native to the southeastern U.S., especially in sandy coastal soils, dry woods and other open, sunny areas. 

   It grows as a cluster of tough, dark-green, leathery, sword-like leaves with sharp edges emerging from a short base underground. The leaves, which can be up to 32 inches long and 2 ¾  inches wide, have white, curling fibers or filaments hanging from their margins. 

   Masses of pendulous creamy white flowers appear from April to September on stalks that can be up to 10 ft. tall. Although primarily pollinated by several species of yucca moths, the flowers also attract hummingbirds. 

   Common Yucca is a handsome evergreen accent plant in the home landscape, needing little maintenance. It is highly adaptable to soils as long as they are well drained and can also be grown in containers.

   Go to Go Native—Grow Native  to learn more about native plants that are appropriate for landscaping