Yucca Gloriosa (Spanish Dagger)

Common Name: Spanish Dagger, Moundlily Yucca
Scientific Name: Yucca gloriosa

Description:

• Type: Evergreen shrub or small tree
• Height: Reaches 6-10 feet tall, with a spread of 3-6 feet; forms a single or multi-trunk structure
• Leaves: Stiff, sword-like, bluish-green leaves with smooth edges and sharp terminal points; leaves may develop a reddish tinge in cooler weather
• Flowers: Produces tall flower spikes up to 6 feet high, adorned with creamy white, bell-shaped flowers in summer and early fall
• Growth Speed: Slow-growing, but long-lived and durable

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade
• Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soils but adapts to a variety of soil types, including poor or dry soils
• Watering: Extremely drought-tolerant; requires occasional deep watering during extended dry periods
• Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 6-11; tolerates mild frost and heat, making it suitable for diverse climates
• Humidity: Adapts to both arid and humid climates, as long as the soil is well-drained
• Hardiness: Resilient to drought, heat, wind, and salt, making it ideal for coastal or xeriscaped gardens

Special Features:

• Distinctive sword-like foliage and dramatic flower spikes make it a striking focal point in landscapes
• Tolerates challenging conditions, including poor soil, drought, and salt spray
• Low-maintenance, with year-round structural interest and seasonal blooms