Yucca gloriosa (Mound Lily): Coastal Native with 8-Foot Flower Spikes

Overview

Yucca gloriosa (mound lily) is a sculptural coastal native from North Carolina to Florida. Sword-like blue-gray to dark green leaves to 24 inches, smooth margins. Summer brings 8-foot spikes of nodding fragrant white bells, sometimes purple-tinged. Thrives in sandy, well-drained soil, heat, and humidity. Excellent for xeriscaping.

Growing Conditions

Full sun only. Sandy, well-drained soil. Dry to medium moisture. Heat and humidity tolerant.

Care and Maintenance

Remove rooted suckers in spring. Low maintenance. Excellent for containers and courtyards.

Common Problems

Cane borers, scale, fungal leaf spots. Generally minor.

Landscape Uses

• Specimen plant/focal point
• Beds and borders
• Containers
• Desert and rock gardens
• Coastal gardens

Key Features

• 8-foot fragrant flower spikes
• Sword-like blue-green leaves
• Native to coastal dunes
• Heat, humidity, drought tolerant
• Excellent for xeriscaping
• Slow grower