Botanical profile

Yucca filamentosa

Latin name
Yucca filamentosa
Common name
Adam's needle
Type
Perennial
Family
Asparagaceae

Yucca filamentosa, commonly known as Adam's needle or needle palm, is a highly ornamental and architectural perennial recognized for its striking foliage and exceptional hardiness. This plant forms a dense rosette of long, rigid, bluish-green leaves, edged with characteristic fine white filaments that give it a unique decorative appeal. In summer, a spectacular tall flower stalk rises above the foliage, bearing numerous creamy-white, bell-shaped flowers that are slightly fragrant and much loved by pollinators. Its low, structured habit adds an exotic and modern touch to landscape designs, while remaining perfectly suited to cold climates. Very drought-tolerant once established, Yucca filamentosa prefers well-drained soil and very sunny locations. It is ideal for rock gardens, dry gardens, modern beds, and plantings in poor soil where few other plants thrive.

Not recommended for pets
Not recommended for pets

Pets

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

Hummingbirds
Flowers that attract hummingbirds

Hummingbirds

Repellent
Helps repel certain pests

Repellent

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Low, tolerates drought once established
Fertilization
Light, low-nitrogen compost in spring if necessary
Soil type
Poor, sandy or very well-drained soil
Minimum temperature
-40 °C (-40 °F)
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Summer
Flower color
Cream / white
Fruiting
Capsules (minor interest)
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Persistent rosette with flower stalks
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
90 cm (3 ft)
Width
4 ft (1.2 m)
Growth rate
Slow to Moderate

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.