Adam’s Needle

(Yucca filamentosa)

Adam’s Needle (Yucca filamentosa)

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant
Yucca filamentosa image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward

Climate Requirements

Precipitation 44" - 57"
High Temp. 74°F - 92°F
Low Temp. 25°F - 49°F

Summary

Yucca filamentosa, commonly known as Adam’s Needle, is an evergreen perennial that can also be classified as a subshrub, shrub, or succulent. It is native to sandy soils in open woodlands and grasslands of the Southeastern USA. This species typically reaches up to 3 m (10 ft) in height when in flower, with a spread of 1.5 m (5 ft). The rosettes of sword-like leaves create a bold textural effect, and the cream-colored, bell-shaped flowers are borne on tall spikes in early summer, adding vertical interest to the garden. The flowers are particularly showy and can attract pollinators such as moths.

Adam’s Needle is valued for its architectural form and its ability to withstand drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used as a specimen plant or in mass plantings for a dramatic effect. It requires full sun and well-drained soil, thriving in sandy or rocky soils with good drainage. It is adaptable to a range of pH levels from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Gardeners should be cautious when planting Yucca filamentosa, as its large taproot makes it difficult to remove and it can spread if not managed properly. It is also resistant to deer and rabbit browsing.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 4-8 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, 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., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Sandy soils in open woodlands and grasslands

Other Names

Common Names: Spanish Bayonet, Bear-Grass, Needle-Palm, Silk-Grass, Spoon-Leaf Yucca, Beargrass, Common Yucca, Needle Palm, Silkgrass, Yucca

Scientific Names: Adam's Needle and Thread, Adam's Needle Yucca, Curlyleaf Yucca, Spoonleaf Yucca

GBIF Accepted Name: Yucca filamentosa L.