2 named cultivars

perennial

Adam's Needle

Yucca smalliana

The Story

Plant Bio

Yucca smalliana 'Maxima' is a striking evergreen shrub characterized by its rosette of stiff, sword-shaped leaves and tall, flower-bearing stems with bell-shaped, cream-colored flowers.

This cultivar is distinguished by its larger size and more robust growth habit, making it a prominent feature in xeriscape and desert garden designs.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking architectural form year-round, with spiky foliage and tall flower stalks in summer.

Drought tolerant, requires minimal watering once established, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

Supports local pollinators when in bloom during summer.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Many years

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or pups into well-draining soil
Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks
Place in full sun for optimal growth
Apply cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly in spring
Mulch lightly to retain moisture during hot months
Protect from frost in colder zones

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage and full sun for best growth

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly during droughts 🌱
Use well-draining soil to prevent rot
Prune dead leaves to maintain shape

Don't

Overwater in winter ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendment ❌
Expose to shade or low light ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Architectural drought-tolerant borderSculptural focal pointDesert-themed garden

Companion Plants

Agave Sedum Yucca filamentosaLavender Echinocactus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Adam's Needle questions

What zones can Adam's Needle grow in?

Adam's Needle is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Adam's Needle deer resistant?

Yes — Adam's Needle is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Adam's Needle bloom?

Adam's Needle typically blooms in early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Adam's Needle need full sun?

Adam's Needle does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Adam's Needle drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Adam's Needle handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.