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Yucca /ˈjʌkə/

Common name: Yucca · Spineless yucca · Giant yucca

Yucca A genus of around 40 evergreen shrubs and small trees from arid regions of North and Central America, in the asparagus family, recognized by their stiff, sword-shaped leaves and tall spikes of cream-white flowers. The spineless yucca, Yucca elephantipes, is the common houseplant, grown for its bold, palm-like silhouette on thick cane trunks. Indoors it wants bright light, sparing water, and sharp drainage, and it tolerates neglect better than almost any other large houseplant.

Care summary

Sun Bright indirect light to full sun
Water Water sparingly; let soil dry out
Soil Well-draining, gritty or sandy mix
Hardiness
Mature height
Pet safe

Fun facts

  • Mature outdoor plants produce tall spikes of large, white, bell-shaped flowers.
  • It is less sharp-tipped than other yuccas, which is why it's called the spineless yucca.
  • Indoor plants rarely flower because they need full sun and maturity to bloom.

Common problems

    • Let soil dry fully between waterings
    • Use a gritty fast-draining mix
    • Reduce watering heavily in winter
    • Water deeply but less often
    • Flush soil to remove salt buildup
    • Trim brown tips with clean shears
    • Wipe scales off with alcohol swabs
    • Spray with horticultural oil
    • Isolate the affected plant