Spanish Dagger
yucca gloriosa
Also known as: ["Mound Lily Yucca","Poverty Yucca"]
Overview
A hardy, evergreen perennial with stiff, sword-like leaves and tall spikes of white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Yucca |
| Botanical Name: | Yucca gloriosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or as an indoor plant in a bright, sunny window
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest spot indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, allowing soil to dry out between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); division of clumps is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut healthy stem/offset.
- Let callus form.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Provide warmth and humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, pot, well-draining medium, plastic bag (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep medium lightly moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base; trim stems just above a leaf node; remove spent flower stalks.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves; control size and shape; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; remove debris; disinfect cuts if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; Yucca gloriosa prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 1–2 weeks during growing season; reduce frequency to monthly in winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; cover with frost cloth in cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow under prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to gastrointestinal irritation from Yucca gloriosa due to its saponin content. The plant's sharp leaves pose a risk of physical injury if chewed or swallowed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Yucca gloriosa can lead to gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of saponins. The plant's sharp leaves may also cause physical injury to the mouth or digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicYucca gloriosa contains steroidal saponins which can cause gastrointestinal irritation upon ingestion. The plant's leaves are particularly fibrous and may cause mechanical injury to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Yucca gloriosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Yucca gloriosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Does Yucca gloriosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
