Soaptree yucca

Yucca elata

This yucca is more common in the Chihuahuan Desert, but it does well at higher elevations in the Sonoran Desert. It can grow quite tall and it may form branches. When conditions are good it puts on a flowering stalk with many large, white, waxy flowers.


Details & Attributes


Plant Type(s) Shrub, Tree
Longevity 30 (in years)
Size
In relative feet, width by height
4 X 12
Description Very long and narrow, forming a rosette at the top of the stem
Flower Color White
Fruit A dry capsule that stays on the stalk.
Range Map Click Here to View
Sun Full
Spines or Thornes Yes
Freeze Tolerance Poor
Ethnobotany/Medical Flowers and buds were used as food, the roots were used to make soap, and the leaves used for basketweaving.
Water Needs Low