Adams needle (Yucca filamentosa) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen succulent often used in Southwest-themed landscapes. A yucca plant in the asparagus family, Adams needle is a virtually stemless shrub with blade-like leaves that form a basal rosette. The foliage clumps are usually 2 to 3 feet tall, with curled threads lining the edges of the leaves, giving it its species name—filamentosa—for its threads or “filaments.”
Mature plants about four or five years old will send up large flower stalks from the center of the foliage in late spring or summer. These stalks can be as tall as 8 feet and are topped with numerous bell-shaped, creamy white flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Adams needle can be planted almost any time, though it is most commonly available at nurseries in the spring. Humans can eat the fruits and flowers of this plant; however, it is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses.
The adams needle yucca is a popular ornamental plant native to the southeastern United States. With its distinctive sword-like leaves and tall flowering stalks this hardy succulent adds drama to any garden. But did you know there are actually numerous different varieties of adams needle yucca to choose from? Read on to learn more about the diverse options of this classic architectural plant.
Overview of Adams Needle Yucca
The adams needle yucca (Yucca filamentosa) is a broadleaf evergreen succulent in the agave family. This virtually stemless, rhizomatous shrub features stiff, pointed, blue-green leaves arranged in a basal rosette. The common name “adams needle” refers to the thread-like filaments curling along the edges of the foliage.
Mature plants can reach 2-3 feet tall and wide. In summer, they send up flower stalks rising as high as 8 feet above the foliage. These are adorned with abundant, creamy bell-shaped blossoms that give way to edible fruits
Adams needle yucca is hardy in USDA zones 4-10. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, even poor quality soil. Established plants have good drought tolerance.
Popular Varieties of Adams Needle Yucca
While Yucca filamentosa is the standard species, there are numerous cultivated varieties available. Some of the most popular options include:
‘Color Guard’
‘Color Guard’ features dramatic variegated foliage. The sword-like blue-green leaves are boldly edged in bright yellow. The bicolor effect makes this variety a standout in the garden.
‘Bright Edge’
Similar to ‘Color Guard,’ ‘Bright Edge’ also has yellow-variegated leaves. However, the yellow margins on this variety are generally thinner than on ‘Color Guard.’
‘Gold Edge’
Another variegated form, ‘Gold Edge’ has slender yellow margins decorating the leaves. The yellow coloration is described as lemon-lime.
‘Golden Sword’
‘Golden Sword’ takes variegation to the extreme, featuring leaves that open bright yellow before fading to green. This makes for an eye-catching display when combined with the all-green foliage of other varieties.
‘Garland’s Gold’
Like ‘Golden Sword,’ ‘Garland’s Gold’ flaunts primarily yellow foliage. However, its leaves display green central stripes rather than transitioning fully to green.
‘Ivory Tower’
‘Ivory Tower’ is prized for its tall, ivory flower stalks that can reach up to 8 feet. It’s a good choice for showing off the dramatic blooms.
‘Excalibur’
‘Excalibur’ is treasured for its gracefully arching, powdery blue foliage. The leaves offer something different from the typical stiff, upright form.
Growing Adams Needle Yucca
Adams needle yucca thrives when provided with full sun, well-drained soil, and occasional deep watering. Here are some tips for success:
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Plant in spring or early summer to give the roots time to establish before winter.
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Space plants 2-3 feet apart to allow room for growth.
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Add sand or gravel to clay soils to improve drainage.
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Water new plantings weekly until established. Then water occasionally during drought.
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Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if plants need a boost.
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Prune faded flower stalks and damaged leaves as needed.
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Propagate by seed, stem cuttings, division or offsets.
Landscape Uses
Thanks to its sculptural looks and drought tolerance, adams needle yucca has many applications in the landscape. Here are some ideas:
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Accent plant – The unique texture makes it ideal for punctuating borders and beds.
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Mass planting – Group multiples together for big impact.
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Rock garden – Combines beautifully with sedums, ornamental grasses and other succulents.
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Xeriscaping – Thrives in low-water gardens.
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Borders and beds – Looks great alongside grasses, iris, coneflower and salvia.
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Containers – Striking focal point for pots and planters.
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Slope planting – Extensive root system helps control erosion.
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Coastal gardens – Tolerates salt spray.
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Modern gardens – Contemporary, architectural form suits modern style.
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Cottage gardens – Adds sculptural flair to informal plantings.
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Wildlife gardens – Flowers attract hummingbirds and yucca moths.
The Takeaway
With numerous attractive varieties to choose from, adams needle yucca is a versatile succulent that should have a place in any sunny garden. It offers unique texture, dramatic architecture, and flowers to boot. Plant a few different varieties together for an eye-catching, low-maintenance display.
Common Pests
Yucca plants can fall victim to insect activity much like other plants, but their woes are generally easier to handle. You can dispatch pests like aphids and mealybugs with blasts of water from your hose. Scale bugs will fall away with neem oil. Agave plant bugs and mites will disappear after several applications of insecticidal soap. The only genuinely problematic pest that can kill your plant is an infestation of yucca weevils.
Yucca weevils burrow underground and feast on the rhizomatous root. If you notice tell-tale holes in the leaves, pull up the root to inspect it. If weevils ravage the root, you may need to destroy it. But, if you can find a healthy, untouched portion of the rhizome, you can cut it off and repot it in a separate container.
Light
This plant grows best in full sun but will tolerate a little shade. In low light conditions, however, yucca will stretch toward the sun.
Adam’s needle (Yucca filamentosa) – Plant Identification
FAQ
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