Scientific Name
Hesperaloe parviflora (Torr.) J.M.Coult.
Common Names
Red Yucca, Texas Red Yucca, Hummingbird Yucca, Red-flowered False Yucca, Redflower False Yucca, Coral Yucca, Samandoque
Synonyms
Yucca parviflora, Hesperaloe parviflora subsp. parviflora, Aloe yucciflora, Aloe yuccifolia, Hesperaloe yuccifolia
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Hesperaloe
Description
Hesperaloe parviflora is a stemless succulent that forms clumps of arching grass-like leaves. It grows up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall, slowly spreading wider than tall. Leaves are blue-green with deep grooves and white fraying fibers along the margins. The winter temperatures sometimes turn the foliage slightly purple. In late spring to mid-summer, the clusters of rose-pink flowers appear on red, up to 5 feet (1.5 m) long stalks that arch up and outward. Individual rosette only flower once and are replaced by younger ones with old plants appearing to be closely packed, grass-like clumps but actually are clusters of separate but closely-spaced rosettes with the oldest flowering rosettes towards the center and younger vegetative rosettes towards the outside.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 5a to 10b: from −20 °F (−28.9 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Plant Red Yucca in full sun in well-drained soil, preferably a bit sandy. To establish a deep and extensive root system, follow a regular watering schedule during its first growing season. Feed with a general-purpose fertilizer in the spring before the new growth starts. Although established plants can get by on little water, for better-looking blooms, give them a deep soaking about once every two weeks during the heat of the summer.
Sometimes xeriscape gardeners avoid cacti and Yuccas, thinking of them as cliches. Still, the striking blooms and unusual foliage of the Red Yucca have won over xeriscape enthusiasts from California to Texas to Florida. The desert native is also at home in a rock garden, planted among dry streambeds and landscape boulders. A surprising addition to a cottage garden or border can contribute color and textural interest if placed with other water-wise perennials.
See more at How to Grow and Care for a Red Yucca.
Origin
This species is native to the Chihuahuan desert of west Texas east and south into central and south Texas and northeastern Mexico around Coahuila.
Cultivars
Links
- Back to genus Hesperaloe
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
