Red Yucca
hesperaloe parviflora
Also known as: ["Redflower False Yucca","Red Yucca"]
Overview
A drought-tolerant, evergreen perennial with arching, succulent-like leaves and tall spikes of coral-red flowers, native to Texas and Mexico.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","long-flowering"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Hesperaloe |
| Botanical Name: | Hesperaloe parviflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: xeriscaped garden or rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once a year or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, less in winter
Water deeply to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–10. Prefers temperatures between 60–90°F (15–32°C). Tolerates brief freezes but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost in colder zones; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets. Stem cuttings are the most common method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, bright, indirect light with moderate humidity. Keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots may form in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use well-draining soil to prevent rot; keep in warm, bright conditions.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip dead leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools. Avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves (to protect from spines).
Checklist
Wear gloves; use clean tools; remove only dead/damaged leaves; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container, typically every 3–4 years.
Checklist
Choose a slightly larger pot; use fresh soil mix; trim dead roots; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water slowly to allow absorption and avoid runoff. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage. Ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or slow growth, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent cold-induced root rot. Mulch lightly in winter in colder zones. Protect from prolonged freezing temperatures if possible.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, wilting, or scorched foliage, especially if combined with intense sun.
Solution: Provide some afternoon shade in extreme heat. Water deeply but infrequently to avoid water stress. Ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply in spring/summer only; water before fertilizing; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply once in spring and once in summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe spines of Hesperaloe parviflora can cause mechanical injury to cats but do not contain toxic compounds. No systemic toxicity is associated with this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Dogs
Non-toxicThe spines of Hesperaloe parviflora can cause mechanical injury to dogs but do not contain toxic compounds. No systemic toxicity is associated with this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Humans
Non-toxicThe spines of Hesperaloe parviflora can cause mechanical injury but do not contain toxic compounds. No systemic toxicity is associated with this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Red Yucca a true yucca?
A: No, it is not a true yucca; it belongs to the genus Hesperaloe and is more closely related to agaves.
Q: How often should I water Red Yucca?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, especially in cooler months.
Q: Does Red Yucca attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, less in win |
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