Scientific Name
Hesperaloe parviflora (Torr.) J.M.Coult.
Common Name(s)
Coral Yucca, False Red Yucca, Hummingbird Yucca, Red-flowered False Yucca, Redflower False Yucca, Red Flower Yucca, Red Yucca, Samandoque, Texas Red Yucca
Synonym(s)
Aloe yucciflora, Hesperaloe parviflora subsp. parviflora, Hesperaloe parviflora var. parviflora, Yucca parviflora
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Agavoideae
Genus: Hesperaloe
Description
Hesperaloe parviflora is a stemless succulent that forms clumps of narrow, arching, blue-green leaves with deep grooves and white fraying fibers along the margins. It grows up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall, slowly spreading wider than tall. The leaves can reach 4.1 feet (1.25 m) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. They often take on purple or reddish-bronze tints in winter.
From late spring to mid-summer, clusters of narrowly tubular, rosy red to salmon flowers appear on red, up to 6 feet (1.8 m) long stalks, arching up and outward. The rosettes only flower once and die but are replaced by younger ones.
Origin
Hesperaloe parviflora is native to the Chihuahuan desert in western Texas, United States, and south into northeastern Mexico around Coahuila, where it typically grows in desert areas, prairies, rocky slopes, and mesquite groves.
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 fairly 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 summer heat.
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. Plant it en masse with other grasses for a native grassland effect if you have space. Finally, it makes an appealing patio accent when planted in a large pot.
Cultivars
Links
- Back to genus Hesperaloe
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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