Red Yucca
Red yucca is not your typical succulent.
The thin leaves look like a clump of grass from a distance, but are actually succulent, and conserve water to fight against drought and heat waves.
And when in bloom, Red yucca grows a tall flower spike with bright pink-red flowers to attract hummingbirds as well as the attention of people passing by.
Botanical name: Hesperaloe parviflora
Other names: Hummingbird yucca, Redflower false yucca, False red yucca, Texas red yucca, Samandoque, Coral yucca, Pink yucca
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Red yucca Appearance
Desert shrub with evergreen leaves that are rigid and succulent that arch down. Overall shape and texture resemble some young yucca plants, which gave Red yucca its name.
Deep green leaves turn yellow given lots of light. Twisted white fibers that look like strings hang from the edges of the leaves. Grows to 2-4 feet tall.
Clumping growth habit. Red yucca will spread by growing offsets from the side. Grass-like clumps with no central stem. Typically spreads to 3-6 feet wide.
Thornless and spineless.
Long blooming season from spring to summer. Multiple blooms throughout the season are common.
Small, 4-inch red-pink flowers grow on tall, 5-8 feet-long flower stalks. Although the flowers are small, because of their sheer number, the blooms are very showy. Flowers are tubular and bright-colored, attracting hummingbirds.
Yellow yucca, which is another variation, grows yellow flowers.
Fruits are about 1 inch long and green as they appear, then ripen into brown. The fruits contain black seeds that attract birds.
Red yucca Landscaping Tips
Great candidate for adding color in a hot and dry region. Recognized by multiple institutions for drought and heat tolerance. Bright and showy blooms and evergreen leaves.
Plant en masse with equal spacing in a straight line for a modern, architectural look.
Also looks great as a standalone shrub alongside other desert plants and adds a unique texture.
Popular flowering shrub in desert-themed gardens and rock gardens.
Enjoy the long blooming season, from spring to summer, and even beyond in some regions with mild weather. Attracts pollinators such as hummingbirds and moths.
No spines or thorns, so they can be planted near pathways.
Minimal maintenance is needed. Some people prune spent old leaves. Some people also prune flower stalks after bloom. However, if you allow it to fruit, it will attract birds that seek its seeds.
Red yucca Origin
Red yucca is from desert regions in Texas and Mexico, which have hot and mostly dry summers with monsoonal rain and cold and dry winters.
Red yucca Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile. Adaptable to a wide range of soils.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit for a short period of time. Does well in the heat.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade is ok in the Palm Springs region, but there will be fewer blooms.
Red yucca Problems
Pests: Red yucca has minimal pests, which include aphids when in bloom.
For aphids, blast them off with water if the infestation is light. Otherwise, use horticultural oil or soapy water. Do not perform pest control when the temperatures are above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, since it can burn the plant.
Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, root rot
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying
Signs of too much sun: Burning, fading color
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring, few blooms
Red yucca Propagation
Red yucca spreads horizontally by growing offsets. Remove the desired offsets and plant in new location.
FAQ
How much does Red yucca cost?
At our nursery, Red yucca costs $25 for a 5-gallon container and $75 for a 15-gallon container.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How big does red yucca get?
Red yucca typically gets 2-4 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide. When it blooms, the flower stalk will be about 5-8 feet tall.
Does Red yucca have spines?
No, Red yucca does not have any spines. Feel free to plant it near pathways!
When will my Red yucca flower?
Red yucca flowers when it is about least 2 years of age. The blooming season is from spring to summer.
SUMMARY
SIZE (H X W) | 2-4 feet x 3-6 feet |
---|---|
FLOWER COLOR | Red-pink |
FLOWER SEASON | Spring to Summer |
EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
WATER | Low |
GROWTH RATE | Moderate |
HARDINESS | -15º F, USDA Zone 5 |
PRUNING | None |