Yucca baccata, commonly known as the banana yucca or datil yucca, is a perennial plant species in the Asparagaceae family. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, it thrives in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant typically reaches heights of 3-5 feet, with a trunk that can grow up to 10 feet tall. Its long, narrow leaves with sharp tips extend up to 2 feet in length.
During late spring or early summer, Yucca baccata produces bell-shaped flowers with white or cream-colored petals, which bloom on tall stalks above the foliage. The fruit is edible and was traditionally used by Native Americans for both food and medicinal purposes, including treatments for skin conditions, coughs, headaches, and arthritis pain relief.
Today, Yucca baccata is often used ornamentally for its unique appearance, which adds an exotic touch to gardens or landscapes with desert themes. It is particularly valued for requiring minimal care once established, making it an ideal choice for low-maintenance gardens that emphasize water conservation. Its drought-tolerant nature makes it a popular choice among gardeners in arid regions around the world.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Yucca
- Family
- Asparagaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-11
- Mature Height
- 0.91 m to 1.22 m
- Mature Spread
- 0.91 m to 1.22 m
- Leaf Color
- Green, Blue
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Cream, Red
- Flower Size
- 5.08 cm to 7.62 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer
- Native Area
- Mexico
Other names.
