Yucca filamentosa is an evergreen shrub with sword-shaped, dark green leaves that grow to 75cm long. Known also as needle palm or Adam's needle and thread, perhaps because of its sharp, pointed leaves, it forms an attractive clump that makes an exotic feature plant. Growing up to a metre tall and 1.5m wide, Yucca filamentosa provides year-round appeal with its architectural evergreen foliage. In late summer, white bell-shaped flowers appear on upright stems up to 2m tall.
Attractive varieties of Yucca filamentosa include 'Bright Edge' which has 60cm long, yellow-edged leaves, 'Variegata' which has leaves with cream-white margins and 'Color Guard', with a wide yellow band in the centre of its dark green leaves.
Grow Yucca filamentosa in well-drained soil in full sun – a south- or east-facing aspect is ideal. Once established it is drought resistant making a low-maintenance garden plant for a sunny border. Caring for Yucca filamentosa is easy, it doesn't need pruning, simply cut flowers down once they are over. Wear gloves when deadheading any faded flowers or handling the foliage, as the plant is a skin allergen. Also, be aware that yuccas are toxic to cats, dogs and horses.
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Advice on buying Yucca filamentosa
- Check that the plant is healthy before buying, or once it's been delivered, if ordering online. Look for any signs of pests or disease
- Not all yuccas are suitable for growing outdoors, so make sure you're buying the right one before purchasing
Where to buy Yucca filamentosa
Frequently asked questions
Can Yucca filamentosa live outside in the UK?
Hardy yuccas like Yucca filamentosa can be planted outside in the UK. Some yuccas are tender and need to be grown indoors over winter, but Yucca filamentosa has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, which means that it is hardy in most places in the UK, down to -15º celsius.
