Yucca rigida
$1.00 – $2.50Price range: $1.00 through $2.50
Yucca rigida
Family: Asparagaceae (Agavoideae)
Common Name: Blue Yucca, Silverleaf Yucca
Origin: Northern Mexico (Chihuahua, Durango, Zacatecas)
Production: Clonally propagated via tissue culture at Rancho Tissue Technologies
Description:
Yucca rigida is a striking, upright-growing yucca species known for its silvery blue foliage, stout trunk, and formal architectural presence. Each leaf is stiff, narrow, and powder-blue, forming a symmetrical rosette that sits atop a thick woody stem over time, eventually growing into a small tree-like specimen reaching 10–15 feet in height.
Closely related to Yucca rostrata, Y. rigida differs by having more rigid, sword-like leaves and a generally more vertical presentation. It thrives in hot, dry climates, and once mature, it produces showy ivory flower clusters atop tall branched stalks in early summer.
Climate & Hardiness:
Zones: USDA 6–10
Cold Tolerance: Hardy down to -10°F (-23°C) when well-drained
Sunlight: Requires full sun for best color and compact form
Heat Tolerance: Excellent—well-adapted to desert and high heat
Humidity: Best in dry to moderately dry regions; avoid wet or poorly ventilated sites
Planting & Care Tips:
Soil: Demands very well-drained soil—gravelly or sandy preferred
Watering: Very drought-tolerant; water only to establish
Growth Habit: Forms a trunk slowly over time; rosettes reach 3–4 feet across
Maintenance: Remove old basal leaves to expose trunk and maintain clean form
Container Use: Suitable for large pots in arid conditions
Details
🌱 Propagation:
Yucca rigida is propagated through tissue culture by Rancho Tissue Technologies, ensuring uniform growth habit, true blue foliage, and disease-free propagation—ideal for large-scale production and landscape applications.
🏡 Landscape & Design Uses:
- Iconic specimen plant for xeriscapes or desert gardens
- Excellent vertical accent in modern or southwestern designs
- Combines beautifully with cacti, agaves, and dryland grasses
- Performs well in hot, reflective sites with poor soil where few other plants thrive
