Curve-Leaf Yucca

(Yucca recurvifolia)

Curve-Leaf Yucca (Yucca recurvifolia)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Yucca recurvifolia image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Yucca recurvifolia, commonly known as Curve-Leaf Yucca, is an evergreen perennial that can be classified as a subshrub, shrub, herb, or succulent, native to the coastal plains and sand dunes of the Southeastern USA. It typically develops a trunk 1.2 to 1.8 meters (4 to 6 feet) high and can branch and sucker, forming colonies. This yucca is well-adapted to its native habitat, thriving in sandy soils and tolerating salt spray, making it ideal for coastal environments. It is particularly popular in beach resort areas along the lower East Coast from coastal Maryland to Florida. The Curve-Leaf Yucca is recognized for its ornamental value and has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.

The plant features arching, blue-green leaves that recurve, giving it its common name. During the summer, it produces panicles of white or cream bell-shaped flowers that are quite showy. In cultivation, Curve-Leaf Yucca is appreciated for its drought tolerance, architectural foliage, and low maintenance requirements. It is often used in xeriscaping, as a focal point in gardens, and for erosion control on slopes. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soils, preferably sandy, with low to very low water once established. While it is a resilient and hardy plant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 6-10 feet
  • Width: 2-4 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, 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., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Coastal plains and sand dunes, thriving in sandy soils and tolerating salt spray

Other Names

Common Names: Curved-Leaved Spanish-Dagger , Pendulous Yucca

Scientific Names: Yucca recurvifolia , Yucca gloriosa var. tristis , Yucca pendula , Yucca gloriosa var. recurvifolia , Yucca flexilis , Yucca boerhaavii , Yucca gloriosa var. marginata , Yucca gloriosa var. planifolia , Yucca peacockii , Yucca recurva

GBIF Accepted Name: Yucca gloriosa var. tristis Carrière