1 named cultivar

‘gurneyi’Gurney's Yucca

perennialN. America Native

Soapweed Yucca

Yucca glauca

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘gurneyi’Gurney's Yucca

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Long-lived perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Yucca glauca, commonly known as Soapweed Yucca, is a hardy, evergreen perennial with rosettes of spiky, blue-gray leaves and tall flower stalks bearing bell-shaped white flowers. This species is distinguished by its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

The Yucca glauca provides an architectural, sculptural presence with its spiky leaves and tall flower stalks, ideal for xeriscaping and modern gardens.

Its drought tolerance makes it perfect for water-wise landscapes, reducing the need for irrigation.

Supports local pollinators such as bees and butterflies with late summer blooms.

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Tuck seeds or young plants into soil in early spring.
Water sparingly until established, about 6 weeks.
Mist cuttings weekly to encourage root growth.
Apply a layer of gravel or sand as mulch to prevent moisture retention.
Transplant mature plants in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; avoid overwatering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly during drought conditions 🌱
Use well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging
Prune dead or damaged leaves annually
Apply cactus or succulent fertilizer in spring

Don't

Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Neglect pruning, leading to unhealthy growth
Expose to excessive shade

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Sculptural drought-tolerant accentVertical focal point in xeriscapeVanilla-scented border

Companion Plants

Agave Sedum Echinocactus Lavender Yucca filamentosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Soapweed Yucca questions

What zones can Soapweed Yucca grow in?

Soapweed Yucca 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 Soapweed Yucca deer resistant?

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

When does Soapweed Yucca bloom?

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

Does Soapweed Yucca need full sun?

Soapweed Yucca does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Soapweed Yucca drought tolerant?

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