Yucca aloifolia (Spanish Bayonet)

Adding vertical structure to the garden, Yucca aloifolia (Spanish Bayonet) is a very ornamental, broadleaf evergreen shrub, simple or densely branched, boasting terminal rosettes of sword-shaped, dagger-like, deep green leaves. Thick and stiff, the evergreen leaves, 2 ft. long (60 cm), feature small, sharp serrations on the margin and a very sharp tip. They are topped in spring or summer with erect clusters, up to 2 ft. long (60 cm), of large nodding bell-shaped creamy white flowers, sometimes tinged purplish. The blossoms attract hummingbirds, moths and butterflies. Carefree and durable, Spanish bayonet is tolerant of drought, frost, heat, and salt. It is widely cultivated and makes a dramatic landscape statement. Ideal for seaside plantings, it is also a great specimen plant for xeriscape gardens and blends well in either tropical, Mediterranean or arid gardens.

• Adds architectural height to the garden and grows up to 5-10 ft. high (150-300 cm) and 3-5 ft. wide (90-150 cm).
• Easily grown in well-drained soils in full sun. Water sparingly, if at all. Spanish Bayonet can also tolerate some shade. Drought tolerant.
• Deer and rabbit resistant
• Great for beds and borders, city gardens or Mediterranean gardens.
• Virtually pest and disease free, but watch for aphids or potential leaf spot
• Propagate by seed or remove rooted suckers
• Pruning not normally needed, but damaged leaves and spent flower spikes can be removed as necessary in the spring.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts of the US and Mexico from North Carolina to the Yucatán, and also to Bermuda