Yucca filamentosa
Adam's needle
Towering spikes of white, bell-shaped flowers in July and August above clumps of stiff, dark green, lance-shaped leaves. Adam's needle makes an excellent focal point for a sunny, well-drained Mediterranean-style garden. A gravel mulch accentuates the architectural foliage and helps to protect the crown of the plant from frost damage. The leaves have sharp tips and serrated edges, so it's best not planted where you are going to brush past it.
How to care for Yucca filamentosa:
Plant in full sun with well-drained, sandy or gritty soil, as Yucca filamentosa dislikes waterlogged conditions. Water thoroughly during the growing season and feed once a month with a balanced liquid fertiliser to encourage strong growth and flowering. In winter, reduce watering to keep the roots dry and prevent rot.
Remove faded flower spikes to maintain a neat appearance, and trim any damaged or yellowing leaves as needed. Mulching around the base can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds, providing protection against light frost in colder areas.
Remove faded flower spikes to maintain a neat appearance, and trim any damaged or yellowing leaves as needed. Mulching around the base can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds, providing protection against light frost in colder areas.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.75m
Eventual spread:
1.5m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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Pets: Harmful if eaten; Humans: Skin allergen
