1 named cultivar

‘Sunrise’Sunrise Yucca

perennialN. America Native

Spanish Bayonet

Yucca aloifolia

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘Sunrise’Sunrise Yucca

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

96 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

Mexico and the southeastern United States

Toxicity

Toxic to pets if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Yucca aloifolia, commonly known as the Agave Yucca or Spanish Bayonet, is a striking evergreen shrub with stiff, sword-shaped leaves that have sharp tips and a rosette formation, producing tall flower spikes with creamy white flowers. This species is notable for its ability to tolerate coastal conditions and drought, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides striking architectural form and evergreen presence year-round.

Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, ideal for water-wise landscapes.

Supports local pollinators and adds biodiversity to xeriscapes.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or pups into well-draining soil in spring.
Mist cuttings lightly once roots develop, usually in 6 weeks.
Position in full sun with minimal watering during establishment.
Ensure soil remains dry between waterings to prevent rot.
Apply a cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly during growing season.
Mulch lightly to conserve moisture but avoid overwatering.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining sandy soil and avoid overwatering for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water sparingly in dry periods 🌱
Provide full sun exposure for optimal growth
Use cactus or succulent fertilizer monthly

Don't

Overwater to prevent root rot ❌
Plant in heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
Expose to prolonged shade ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Drought-tolerant desert borderArchitectural focal point in xeriscapeSculptural accent in coastal gardens

Companion Plants

Agave Echinocactus Lavender Sedum Yucca filamentosa

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Spanish Bayonet questions

What zones can Spanish Bayonet grow in?

Spanish Bayonet is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Spanish Bayonet deer resistant?

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

When does Spanish Bayonet bloom?

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

Does Spanish Bayonet need full sun?

Spanish Bayonet does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Spanish Bayonet drought tolerant?

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