Yucca glauca

Habit: Yucca plants are always a majestic sight when encountered in the wild as well as in designed landscapes. This species in not an exception. Yucca glauca forms a large clump or evergreen leaves, measuring 3-4 feet in length. Its dagger-like blades are dark green and narrow, similar to grass, but much tougher. In the early summer, it produces a 3-4 feet, central flowering stalk, with massive clusters of 5-inch long, pendulous flowers. The corolla is bell-shaped, cream to greenish-colored, and sometimes pinkish on the outside. Blossom are followed by woody, pale white seed capsules.

Ecology: inhabits grass prairies and deserts, in warm, semi-arid climates. Native to Western and Central North America, from Montana and south to Texas and eastward to Minnesota, Iowa and Arkansas.

Growing conditions: Yucca glauca enjoys full sun and well-drained, sandy to loamy soils. It is drought tolerant and low-maintenance, well-adapted to harsh conditions. The plant self-seeds so it might become weedy if left unattended, but the addition of its showy foliage and perfumed flowers to the garden are well worth the effort.

Plains yucca is a member of the agave family (Agavaceae). Members of this family are native to hot, tropical regions, typically where it is arid. The Family is comprised of about 20 genera and 700 species, many of which have been used by Native Americans to weave baskets, mats and sandals. Their thick, fibrous blades are a great source of valuable fiber, such as sisal hemp.