Yucca gigantea aka Bluestem Yucca
Taxonomy
Yucca gigantea (syn. Yucca elephantipes), also known as spineless yucca, stick yucca and yucca gigantea, is a type of evergreen shrub that looks like a small tree with large sword-shaped leaves. Native to Mexico and Central America, it can grow up to 8–12 m (26–39 ft) in height and can have an aggressive root system. It is widely cultivated around the world as an ornamental garden or house plant and is also used extensively in Salvadoran cuisine as the edible flower is the national flower of El Salvador locally called izote. Blue-Stem Yucca is a super popular houseplant that isn't challenging to grow and needs very little water to thrive. It likes soil that is extremely well-draining and should be placed less than 1 foot from a window with long-lasting, direct light. Plant parents describe this plant as being a survivor and having large, lush leaves so it is best to repot each time it doubles in size. However, Blue-Stem Yucca is not safe to consume so if you, a family member, or a pet has ingested any amount of plant material contact Poison Control, US (800) 222-1222, or your veterinarian. If you have children, cats, or dogs in the home, we suggest keeping this plant out of reach.
Common names
Bluestem Yucca, Izote, Spineless YuccaHow to care for Bluestem Yucca
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Bluestem Yucca is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Bluestem Yucca does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
When growing the Bluestem Yucca, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Bluestem Yucca prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Toxicity
Bluestem Yucca is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
Bluestem Yucca plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.
Fertilizer
The Bluestem Yucca grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Bluestem Yucca as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Bluestem Yucca’s native range is the Americas and Caribbean.
Flower
Yes, if you provide your Bluestem Yucca with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Yucca Genus
Yucca arkansana Arkansas Yucca
Yucca carnerosana
Yucca harrimaniae Harriman's Yucca
Yucca aloifolia Yucca
Yucca treculeana Don Quixote's Lace
Yucca rupicola Twist Leaf Yucca
Yucca baccata Banana Yucca
Yucca decipiens Chinese Palm
Yucca necopina Brazos River Yucca
