New Mexico Spanish bayonet Yucca harrimaniae

This Yucca is native to the southwestern US where it can be found growing on plateaus, on hillsides and rocky outcrops. It can grow in most soils but prefers a sandy-loam location where the plant will be hardier. Full sun is recommended.  It will slowly multiply, forming a colony of a period of time.

The rosettes may grow singularly but form clusters.  They will develop a short trunk.  The foliage is a straight, narrow and curved (Cross-section).  The foliage is green with brown edges.  The brown edges have curly white filaments.

It is pollinated by white Yucca moths.  At nighttime, the flowers attract the female that feeds on the nectar, then collects the pollen into a ball.  She will then transfer that ball to the next flower, where she also lays her eggs and places the pollen.  That will ensure that seeds will form.

The fruit, flowers, and stems are edible.  Peeling the immature fruit will eliminate the bitter skin. The flowers can be eaten raw or dried then crushed to serve as a flavoring.  The white inner portion of the flowering stem can be peeled, cooked and eaten.

Fibers from the leaves is used for making ropes, mats and baskets.  The leaves can be used as a paint brush or broom.  The roots are used to make a soap.

Its evergreen character provides winter interest in the garden.  

This desert shrub will form a deep taproot, over 30" deep.

The species 'harrimaniae' honors Mrs. Mary Harriman, who along with her husband Edward (a railroad tycoon) were philanthropists who funded collection expeditions.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  Does not grow well in moist climates.  It is also cold intolerant.  May be invasive.

The roots contain saponins, which are mildly toxic to humans.  Saponins are not absorbed by the body, they tend to pass through the body without causing issues.  They are destroyed by prolonged heat, such as baking.  Saponins are toxic to some animals.