Banana Yucca

(Yucca baccata)

Banana Yucca (Yucca baccata)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Yucca baccata, commonly known as Banana Yucca, is an evergreen plant that can be classified as a subshrub, herb, shrub, or succulent. It is native to arid regions such as deserts and semi-deserts, as well as chaparral and grasslands in the Southwestern United States and Mexico. This species is adapted to dry, open areas with plenty of sunlight. Banana Yucca typically has a rosette of tough, sword-shaped leaves that are 50–76 cm (20–30 in) long and exhibit a distinctive blue-green hue. The plant may have a short, sometimes nonexistent trunk. Its flowering season extends from spring into summer, with blooms appearing from April to July depending on altitude. The flowers are bell-shaped, 5 to 13 cm long, and are generally white to cream in color, often with purple tinges. The flower stalks are modest in height, reaching 1–1.5 meters. Banana Yucca produces an edible, indehiscent fleshy fruit that is 8–18 cm long and 6 cm across, cylindrical in shape, and has a flavor reminiscent of sweet potatoes.

Banana Yucca is valued for its drought tolerance and architectural form, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used in borders and as a focal point in drought-tolerant landscapes. The plant’s low water requirements and preference for well-drained soils make it an easy-care addition to gardens in arid climates. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While generally disease-resistant, Banana Yucca can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered. It is also important to note that the sharp leaves can be a hazard in areas with pedestrian traffic.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Herb, Shrub, Succulent
  • Height: 1.3-1.5 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Very Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to arid regions such as deserts and semi-deserts, chaparral, and grasslands

Other Names

Common Names: Broadleaf Yucca, Spanish Bayonet, Izote De Dátil, Kålpalmlilja, Datil Yucca

Scientific Names: , Yucca baccata, Sarcoyucca baccata, Yucca baccata f. genuina,

GBIF Accepted Name: Yucca baccata Torr.