Silver Yucca Yucca rostrata

Beaked yucca is native to Texas and adjacent northeastern Mexico. It is a member of the asparagus family (Asparagaceae). The species epithet is Latin for “beaked” and refers to the pointed (“beaked”) stigmatic end of the fruit.

This yucca needs well-drained, sandy soil and at least half a day of full sun. Other soil types, as long as they are well-drained, are also acceptable. One of the hardiest trunk-forming yuccas, it tolerates cold up to zone 5.

This tree-like yucca is an extremely ornamental, slow-growing evergreen, with a perfectly symmetrical pom-pom-like form. The trunk is covered with the remains of old leaves. The rosette of leaves sits at the top of the trunk.  A well-grown specimen will carry a crown of over one hundred 2-foot-long leaves.  The leaves are an attractive pale blue-green color and dance in the breeze. This tree-like plant has leaves that are soft, unlike other varieties of yucca, making this a less dangerous plant. Adult plants will produce terminal clusters of waxy, white flowers. In nature, yucca moth larvae feed on the seeds; adult moths intentionally pollinate the flowers by collecting and placing masses of pollen on the stigmas.

Beaked yucca works well in a xeric garden, winter garden, or night garden (the silvery leaves in moonlight are striking). It makes an eye-catching accent or specimen.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.  Minor issues with red spiders, spider mites, mealybugs, scale and aphids. Avoid planting in locations having poor drainage. Overwatering can lead to root rot.

VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti," a plant identification course created in partnership with Longwood Gardens.