Yucca rostrata

Make a bold statement with Yucca rostrata—an instant, sculptural centerpiece that looks premium all year. Its blue-green spines form a perfectly rounded crown, thriving in full sun with minimal watering. Ideal for entrances, patios, and modern outdoor designs when you want maximum impact with minimum maintenance.

1. Basic Identification

Plant Science Name: Yucca rostrata
Plant Variant: Standard
Plant Color: Natural
Plant Country: Not mentioned
SKU: PLT-0135
Arabic Name: يوغا
Stems: Not available
Family: Asparagaceae

2. Taxonomy & Classification

Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Yucca

3. Origin & Distribution

Native to the Chihuahuan Desert of southwestern Texas (USA) and the state of Chihuahua (Mexico). It has been widely introduced as an ornamental in arid and semi-arid landscapes worldwide, including the Mediterranean, Australia, and southern Africa.

4. Visual Characteristics

A single, unbranched trunk topped by a symmetrical rosette of rigid, narrow, sword-shaped leaves. Leaves are blue-green to glaucous, up to 45 cm long, with finely serrated margins. In late spring to early summer, mature plants produce a tall panicle (up to 2 m) of pendulous, creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers.

5. Size & Dimensions

Height: 2–5 m (6½–16 ft) at maturity in landscape settings;
Trunk diameter: 20–30 cm (8–12 in);
Leaf length: 30–45 cm (12–18 in);
Container-grown specimens remain significantly smaller (1–2 m).

6. Light Requirements

Full sun (minimum 6–8 hours direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light afternoon shade in extremely hot climates but performs best in bright, unobstructed sun.

7. Watering Needs

Drought-tolerant once established. Water sparingly—allow soil to dry completely between deep waterings. In winter or cooler months, reduce watering to once a month or cease entirely if temperatures remain below 10 °C (50 °F).

8. Soil & Potting

Requires very well-draining, sandy or gritty soil. Ideal mix: 50% coarse sand or gravel + 30% loam + 20% organic matter. pH preference: neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5–8.0). In containers, use a cactus/succulent potting mix amended with perlite or pumice.

9. Temperature & Humidity

Hardy to −15 °C to −20 °C (USDA zones 5–11). Prefers hot, arid conditions; low humidity is acceptable. Protect from prolonged frost and waterlogged soil in winter.

10. Fertilization

Low nutrient requirement. Apply a balanced (10-10-10) slow-release fertilizer once in early spring. Avoid high nitrogen formulas to prevent overly vigorous, weak growth.

11. Maintenance & Care Level

Very low maintenance. Remove spent flower stalks after bloom. Trim old, dead leaves at the base to maintain a clean trunk. Minimal pruning otherwise.

12. Growth & Propagation

Propagation primarily by seed: sow fresh seeds in spring in well-draining mix; germination in 2–6 weeks at 20–25 °C. Rarely produces basal offsets; these can be removed and potted when 10–15 cm tall. Root cuttings also possible.

13. Common Problems

Overwatering can cause root rot and crown rot. Pests: scale insects, mealybugs, yucca weevils. Environmental: leaf tip browning from frost or frost damage; chlorosis in overly acidic or waterlogged soils.

14. Benefits & Uses

Striking architectural accent in xeriscapes, rock gardens, patios, and modern landscapes. Suitable for drought-tolerant public and commercial plantings. Long-lasting cut flower spikes. Wildlife value: nectar source for hummingbirds and bees.

15. Toxicity & Safety

Leaves have sharp, serrated edges—wear gloves when handling. All parts contain saponins; ingestion can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in humans and pets. Keep out of reach of children and animals.