Yucca recurvifolia

7 Oct

Yucca recurvifolia Flower (08/09/2012, Kew Garden, London)

Position: Full sun

Flowering period: Late summer

Soil: Moist, well drained

Eventual Height: 2m

Eventual Spread: 1m

Hardiness: 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b

Family: Asparagaceae

Sub Family: Agavoideae

Yucca recurvifolia is an evergreen shrub with a spiky architectural habit. The thin grey/green strap like leaves are pointed and up to 1m long. This leaves are arranged in a half sphere and with time forms a single stem/ trunk. The flower stalks of this Yucca are up to 1m in height. The large, fragrant, bell shaped, white flowers are produced in clusters. The fruit appears in the form of a capsule.

Yucca recurvifolia, commonly known as the Curve Leaf Yucca, Weeping Yucca or Pendulous Yucca, is native to southeastern USA. Yucca recurvifolia is synonymous with Yucca gloriosa var. tristis, Yucca gloriosa var. recurvifolia or Yucca pendula.

The etymological root of the binomial name Yucca is derived from the Carib (indigenous people of the Caribbean) name for cassava (misapplied to this plant). Recurvifolia is derived from the Latin recurvo meaning ‘bend back’ and folium meaning ‘leaf’.

The landscape architect may find Yucca recurvifolia useful as an architectural shrub in dry, low maintenance locations. Once established this plant is drought tolerant. This plant is not attractive to rabbits and deer. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution. Care should be taken when locating this plant as the leaf tips are sharp.