SCIENTIFIC NAME: Yucca recurvifolia 'Mellow Yellow'

COMMON NAME: Mellow Yellow Yucca

GARDEN SIZE: 4-5 ft. tall, 3 ft. wide

GROWTH RATE: Slow

USDA ZONE: Likely 7 to 10 (inferred from species)

EXPOSURE: Full Sun

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, evergreen shrub with a clumping form

FOLIAGE: Yellow-green strap-like leaves with spiny tips

FLOWERS: White flowers in spring

PLANT ORIGIN: Found south of Tennessee

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a host for local insects and wildlife. May provide food for insects in the spring.

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.

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.