Plant Database
Spanish Dagger
Yucca gloriosa
Spanish Dagger is a classic, rugged yucca that defines the coastal and desert landscape with its formidable presence. It forms a dense rosette of very stiff, sharp-tipped, blue-green to deep green leaves that demand respect. Mature plants develop a single or branching trunk. In late summer to fall, it sends up a spectacular, towering flower spike laden with creamy-white, bell-shaped blossoms that are often tinged with purple. Exceptionally tolerant of salt, wind, drought, and poor soil, it is a quintessential plant for seaside gardens and low-maintenance xeriscapes.
-
Iconic, Sharp-Tipped Foliage: Forms a symmetrical rosette of rigid, sword-like leaves with extremely sharp points, making it an effective security barrier.
-
Spectacular Summer Flower Spikes: Produces an impressive, tall (5-8 ft) panicle of pendulous, creamy-white (often purple-tinged) flowers that are highly fragrant at night.
-
Extreme Coastal & Drought Hardiness: Thrives in the most challenging conditions: full sun, salt spray, wind, sandy soil, and prolonged drought.
-
Slow-Growing & Architectural: Develops a strong, woody trunk over many years, creating a bold, sculptural form that commands attention.
-
Deer Resistant & Pest-Free: The tough, fibrous leaves are completely ignored by deer and have no significant pest problems.