Yucca Filamentosa - Adams Needle
Straplike evergreen needles are about
1" wide and 2-3' long. Attractive, creamy white, bell shaped flowers
are borne on an erect spike which extends to about 3 or 4' tall in our
Pennsylvania climate but can go much higher in the warmer climates.
Bloom time is during June to August depending on your location.
That
portion of the plant that flowers dies but many more lateral buds are
formed that start new plants. Clean the dead portions away to keep your
yucca looking neat and tidy. Trim off the spikes after flower petals
have dropped unless you would like to save the seeds or use the pods
in craft projects. They almost look like a very large peanut shell.
The flower petals are edible with a crunchy texture and mildly sweet
taste and can be used in salads. Use sparingly and only use flowers
from your garden that have not been sprayed with chemicals. Even then
wash petals first to be sure drift from the neighbors yard hasn't contaminated
your plants.
More
about eating flowers from your garden can be found here: Edible Flowers
Yucca prefers full sun but will tolerate light shade. We have some growing
on the eastern side of our house where they get full sun until 2 pm
and then become shaded by the house. They are doing quite well. Yucca
thrives in hot dry conditions in any soil making it a great plant for
a desert garden. Give a tropical look to your poolside with plants in
the ground or in large containers. Also can be used in borders, natural
areas and rock gardens.
|
