Description
Compact, attractive and easy Yucca
Yucca thompsoniana remains smaller than Yucca rostrata and the leaves are stiffer, shorter (25-40 cm) (1-1.5 feet) and greener, especially in natural habitat. In cultivation the leaves turn more blue and their length increases to 60-80 cm (2-3 feet). The leaf width varies from 7-16mm (1/4 - 1/2 inch). In natural habitat Yucca thompsoniana leaves have small yellow lines with fine teeth along the margins, something wild Yucca rostrata do not display. In sharp contrast to Yucca rostrata the surface of the leaves feels rather rough .The inflorescence differs from Yucca rostrata: the panicle (40-60cm long) grows 50-90 cm above the leaves, making the total flower stalk up to 120-150cm (3-4.5 feet), whereas Yucca rostrata's flowers start right above the leaves. In the budding phase the flowers look purple or greenish, unlike the flowers of Yucca rostrata.
It's not a demanding plant to grow, it tolerates wind, drought, heat and frost well. And it's great to look at. In short a fine exotic which deserves a place in your garden!
Beware some company's sell the cheaper green Yucca rostrata as Yucca thompsoniana!
Frost resistant to -18°C, but keep protected from -7°C