A softer, greener yucca from the Southeast, with long, flexible leaves that arch and droop at the tips. It brings a lush, almost tropical look to beds and pots, and it does best here with afternoon shade and regular water.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide. Unlike desert yuccas, it does best with regular water, but the soil should still drain well.
Pruning
Remove dead leaves only. Stripping the trunk bare like a palm is a trend best skipped.
Sun
Full Phoenix sun often yellows the leaves. Morning sun with afternoon shade keeps them a clean blue-green.
Pests
Spider mites can appear when foliage is dusty and air circulation is poor. A rinse with water helps.
How our designers use it
A lush look with little fuss
It gives the full, soft feel of a tropical planting while staying evergreen and easy to care for.
Entries and courtyards
Its flexible leaves make it comfortable beside doors, walks and patios where a stiff yucca would be a hazard.
Containers
It makes a handsome, slow-growing pot plant for a shaded porch or courtyard.
Good to know
Around the pool
Its leaves bend rather than stab, so it is one of the easier yuccas to place near seating and walkways.
Pets
Yucca is on the ASPCA’s list of plants toxic to dogs, cats and horses. Discourage pets from chewing on it.
