Family: Asparagaceae
Scientific name: Yucca rostrata
Common name: Beaked Yucca
Origin: Mexico

This Yucca species originally grows in the eastern part of the Chihuahua Desert, on the border of Mexico and the US. Because it can cool off considerably at night there, the species is frost-resistant and can therefore be planted in the garden in the Netherlands. It is an ornamental species with elongated, blue-green leaves up to 60 cm long and a sharp tip. From dead leaves a trunk is formed that in nature can reach a height of up to 4.5 meters. The inflorescence can grow up to a meter above the plant and consists of many white flowers. In Mexico, these are pollinated by Yucca moths, whose larvae feed on developing seeds. 

Young plants are still best protected from frost, but older plants can be planted in the open ground. Provide sandy soil, a sunny location, and cover the growing tip with a plastic bag against moisture during the winter months. 

Sowing description: Sow seeds shallowly in seeding and cutting soil. Cover completely with foil or glass and keep the soil constantly slightly moist. Germination usually takes place after a few weeks at 20-25degC in a well-lit location.

Sowing time: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: -15 degrees Celsius