Native to hot dry regions stretching from North to Central America and the West Indies, there are about 40 species in this genus within the Agavaceae family, including evergreen herbaceous perennials, trees, and shrubs. They have a strong bold form with strap-to lance-shaped leaves arranged in rosettes. Bell-to cup-shaped flowers are held on mostly erect panicles. Flowers are usually white or cream, though they may be tinged with purple. Yucca whipplei holds the record for the fastest plant growth; its flowering spike emerges and grows to 12 ft (3.5 m) in just 14 days. Yucca glauca is the state flower of New Mexico.
CULTIVATION
Yucca species grow best in loamy soil with good drainage, but will tolerate poor sandy soil. They range from frost hardy to frost tender. In colder areas it is advisable to grow the tender species in large pots in loam-based potting compost and overwinter indoors. If grown outdoors they need good light in summer, a monthly feed, and careful watering. Propagation is by sowing seed in spring, although seed may take some time to germinate. Take root cuttings in winter, or remove suckers in spring.
Top Tip
With their dramatic foliage and form, these are not plants for crowded corners. As in their native environment-deserts and sand dunes-a sparse setting suits them best.
CULTIVATION
Yucca species grow best in loamy soil with good drainage, but will tolerate poor sandy soil. They range from frost hardy to frost tender. In colder areas it is advisable to grow the tender species in large pots in loam-based potting compost and overwinter indoors. If grown outdoors they need good light in summer, a monthly feed, and careful watering. Propagation is by sowing seed in spring, although seed may take some time to germinate. Take root cuttings in winter, or remove suckers in spring.
Top Tip
With their dramatic foliage and form, these are not plants for crowded corners. As in their native environment-deserts and sand dunes-a sparse setting suits them best.
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