Plant Form: Succulent
Water Use: Very low
Mature Size: 6-12 ft. tall x 3-6 ft. wide
Exposure: Full sun
Bloom Time: Spring (May), Summer (June-August)
Hardiness: Cold Hardy to -20°F
Native to: Southern Texas, Northern Mexico
Big Bend Yucca creates a bold architectural element in the garden as it gradually develops a short trunk with a fibrous, soft gray covering. Two-foot-long stiff, bluish-green leaves form a dense rosette on top of the trunk. Dense clusters of waxy white flowers bloom on a stalk rising above the foliage of mature plants in late spring and summer, attracting hummingbirds. This tree-like yucca needs good drainage and only occasional summer irrigation, but more in extreme heat or in containers. Resistant to rabbits and deer, but gophers are fond of this plant, so plant with protection around the roots to prevent gophers from tunneling up into the stem. This slow-growing plant native to the Big Bend region of southern Texas and northern Mexico is considered to be one of the finest yuccas for southwest ornamental landscapes. Striking as a focal point or accent in rock gardens and borders, and as a dramatic container specimen.
THIS MONTH IN YOUR DESERT-SMART LANDSCAPE
Warm, mild weather this month prompts rapid growth of plants, as well as insect pests
- Plant perennials as early as possible this month is you missed the fall planting season
- Transplant Joshua Trees and Yuccas from March to mid-April
- Teach plants to grow deeply for moisture. In spring, for average soils, water deeply only every 2-3 weeks
- Check aphids on new growth; wash off with strong jet of water
- Get rid of weeds while they are small, especially before they reseed