ABSTRACT
Plant Description A genus of some 40 species indigenous to the drier regions of North America, yuccas are well adapted to dry conditions, and therefore are popular xeriscape plants. They form rosettes of stiff, swordlike leaves often tipped with a sharp spine. Some species develop a woody, branching, trunk as they mature. Inflorescences consist of tall, showy panicles of pendent, creamy-white, belllike flowers (Figure 405). Some of the larger species of yucca may take many years before they bloom. Many species of yucca require a specific insect, the yucca moth, to pollinate the flowers. The fruits are fleshy capsules that turn brown when ripe, splitting open to release numerous seeds. Other members of the Agavaceae that are similar include agave (Agave spp.) and sacahuiste, bunch grass, or bear grass (Nolina spp.).
