Spanish Dagger, Giant Yucca
yucca faxoniana
Also known as: ["Candelilla Yucca","Chaparral Yucca"]
Overview
A large, evergreen shrub or small tree native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, characterized by stiff, sword-like leaves and tall flowering stalks.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Yucca |
| Botanical Name: | Yucca faxoniana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- 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 annually or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but thrives in direct sunlight.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure outdoor placement receives ample light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, less in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Prefers 70–90°F (21–32°C); tolerates 20–50°F (-6–10°C) but grows best in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy cutting/offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot within 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), pot, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid tearing.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged leaves; use clean tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; Yucca faxoniana prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust 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 day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply every 1–2 weeks during spring and summer; reduce to monthly in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C); use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Yucca faxoniana. The plant's sharp leaves pose a risk of physical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Yucca faxoniana can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of saponins. The sharp leaves may also cause physical injury.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicYucca faxoniana contains saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The plant's leaves are also sharp and can cause physical injury upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Yucca faxoniana toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Yucca faxoniana?
A: Water sparingly, as it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
Q: Does Yucca faxoniana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowering stalks.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, less in win |
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