What: Yucca recurvifolia, also known as curve-leaf yucca, has a strong architectural quality. The sharp-tipped, sword-shaped leaves stand out in a spiky sphere and gradually form a trunk that can reach 4 to 6 feet tall. The long slender foliage, blue-green in color, often gracefully bends or slightly droops from the tips, and forms a stately specimen as it matures. Once mature, tall flower spikes tower high above the foliage and carry dozens of pendulous, lantern-shaped creamy white flowers in mid- to late summer. The evergreen shrub is extremely easy to grow and adapts to most soils so long as there is good drainage. Consider using this plant’s unique textural contrast in containers.
Size: This vase-shaped shrub matures at 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Where: Yuccas adapt well to most garden soils. This plant prefers a well-drained or sandy soil but is tolerant of clay and is very drought tolerant once established.
Care: The best growth and flowering occur in full sun. Although it will tolerate light or open shade, it is less likely to flower. Once established, yearly removal of the oldest, dead or damaged leaves in the fall or winter is recommended.
— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks
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