Type: Evergreen

Exposure: Full Sun

Water Use: Rain Water

Mature Size: 12’ H x 4’ W

Yucca rostrata is a trunk-forming yucca native to the Chihuahuan deserts of Texas and Mexico that is naturalized in New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. The common name beaked yucca refers to the sharp tips of the leaves, which can be up to 3 feet long.

Extremely drought and heat tolerant, Yucca rostrata can withstand temperatures down to 0 degrees, and sometimes lower for brief periods. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-11. Well drained soil is best as this plant does not tolerate dampness well.

This is a striking trunk-forming species, with long, narrow ice blue leaves forming a perfectly rounded crown atop a very slow growing trunk that can eventually reach up to 15 feet tall. Although frequently single crowned, this plant will sometimes form multiple crowns that are each graced with a stalk of creamy white flowers in late spring. Visited by hummingbirds and moths, these flowers provide an additional 3 feet of height to the plant.

Maintenance requirements are few, removing spent flower stalks when dry, perhaps removing old, dry leaves as they fold down over the trunk, and giving the plant infrequent water during the warmest months of summer.

Author and Photographer: Wes Brittenham, artist, gardener and writer.