Yucca

Yucca filamentosa, Yucca glauca, Yucca baccata

Cultivars: 'Color Guard', 'Bright Edge', 'Golden Sword'

Yucca is a bold, architectural shrub known for its rigid, sword-like leaves and tall flower spikes that appear in late spring to summer. It brings strong structure and drought tolerance to xeric and modern landscapes and works well as a focal plant in gravel beds, rock gardens, and water-wise plantings. The evergreen foliage provides year-round presence, and the tall white flower stalks add vertical interest and attract pollinators. Its clean, sculptural look makes it a staple in low-maintenance landscapes.

Plant Characteristics
Genus
Yucca
Species
Yucca filamentosa, Yucca glauca, Yucca baccata
Cultivar
‘Color Guard’, ‘Bright Edge’, ‘Golden Sword’
Family
Asparagaceae
Plant Characteristics
Pollinator-Friendly
Plant Color
Light green
Flower Color
Greenish-white
Bloom Time
Summer
Height
2-4'
Width
2-3'
Water Use
Low
Care Instructions

Yucca thrives in full sun and sharply drained soil. It has low water needs once established and performs best with deep, infrequent watering. Overwatering is a common cause of decline, especially in heavy soils. Water regularly during establishment, then reduce irrigation significantly. Pruning is minimal and typically limited to removing spent flower stalks and damaged leaves near the base. Winter protection is generally not required in Rocky Mountain climates, provided drainage is excellent and plants are not in overly wet winter soils.