Adam's Needle
Yucca filamentosa
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
60 inches
Width
30 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low
Humidity
Dry to moderate
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Southeastern United States
Toxicity
Parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Yucca filamentosa, commonly known as the Adam's needle, is a drought-tolerant and low-maintenance perennial with sword-like leaves and tall spikes of white flowers. This species is known for its fibrous leaves that can be used to make rope and textiles.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Tuck seeds or offsets into soil, spacing appropriately.
- Water sparingly until plants establish, about 2-3 weeks.
- Mist cuttings to maintain humidity during rooting.
- Transplant seedlings after they develop strong roots, approximately 6 weeks.
- Mulch lightly to prevent weed growth and retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot; Yucca filamentosa thrives in drought conditions.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently to mimic natural drought cycles 🌱
- Prune dead or damaged leaves to encourage healthy growth
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Do not plant in heavy clay soil without amendment
- Refrain from excessive fertilizing, as it can weaken the plant
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
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 to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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.
More Yucca to compare
Color Guard Yucca
Yucca flaccida 'Color Guard'
Weak-leaf Yucca
Yucca flaccida 'Hairy'
Adam's Needle
Yucca filamentosa 'Excalibur'
Variegated Adam's Needle
Yucca filamentosa 'Variegata'
Beaked Yucca 'Sapphire Skies'
Yucca rostrata 'Sapphire Skies'
Gold Heart Yucca
Yucca flaccida 'Gold Heart'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Grow Adam's Needle with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
