SCIENTIFIC NAME: Yucca filamentosa 'Color Guard'

COMMON NAME: Color Guard Yucca, Adam's Needle

GARDEN SIZE: 2-3 ft. tall, 1.5-2 ft. wide; flower stalks 3-4 ft. tall

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 4 to 10

EXPOSURE: Full Sun. May tolerated some shade.

WATER & SOIL: Yuccas thrive in well-drained soils—sandy, rocky, or even clay if drainage is good. Once established, they are highly drought-tolerant but can handle occasional watering in prolonged dry spells. Avoid waterlogged sites to prevent root rot.

HABIT (FORM): Upright, clumping rosette

FOLIAGE: Evergreen sword-like leaves, creamy-yellow centers with green edges; centers develop rose overtones in cooler months

FLOWERS: Bell-shaped creamy white flowers, 2-3 inches long, on sturdy stalks in early to midsummer

PLANT ORIGIN: Found in the eastern portion of the United States, including Tennessee

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Host plant for local butterflies and moths, and food source for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Supplies shelter and nesting sites.

FERTILIZING: Yuccas require little fertilization. Apply a light feeding of a balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring if growth is slow or foliage looks pale. Over-fertilizing can cause weak, floppy leaves.

PRUNING: Very low-maintenance. Remove spent flower stalks and any dead or damaged leaves as needed, typically in late winter or early spring. Trunk-forming species may have dead leaves trimmed for a cleaner appearance.

TOXICITY: Generally considered mildy to moderately toxic to humans and pets. Some sources say that the blossoms are edible by humans.

USES: Excellent as architectural accents, borders, or container specimens. Ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and pollinator-friendly landscapes, with striking blooms and bold evergreen foliage that provide year-round interest.