Yucca elephantipes (Spineless Yucca)

The tallest of the Yuccas, Yucca elephantipes (Spineless Yucca) is a large, upright succulent shrub or small tree boasting several sparsely branched trunks that thicken over time and resemble an elephant’s foot. They are topped by spiral rosettes of sword-shaped, blue-green leaves that may reach 4 ft. on mature plants. The stiff, leathery, evergreen leaves are smooth and spineless, hence the common name. In summer, mature plants produce a flowering stalk, up to 3 ft. long (90 cm), that rises well above the foliage, and bears large clusters of nodding, creamy-white flowers. The blooms are edible and high in calcium and potassium and can be used in salads. Carefree and durable, Spineless Yucca makes a dramatic landscape statement. Adding vertical structure to the landscape, it is a great specimen plant for xeriscape gardens and blends well in either tropical, Mediterranean or arid gardens. It is also widely grown in containers where it rarely produces any flowers.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 15-30 ft. high (4-9 m) and 15-25 ft. wide (4-8 m).
• Easily grown in sandy, dry to medium, well-drained soils in full sun. Drought tolerant.
• Great for beds and borders, containers, coastal gardens or Mediterranean gardens.
• Virtually pest and disease free, but keep an eye out for aphids or potential leaf spot. Deer and rabbit resistant
• Pruning not normally needed, but damaged leaves and spent flower spikes can be removed as necessary in the spring.
• Propagate by seed, sown in spring at 66-75°F (19-24°C). Flowers may need hand-pollination to set seed. Rooted suckers can be removed in spring or take root cuttings in winter.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.
• Native to Mexico, Guatemala.