Hesperoyucca Whipplei

Description

Hesperoyucca whipplei, commonly known as Chaparral Yucca, Our Lord's Candle, or Spanish Bayonet, is a dramatic, drought-tolerant perennial native to the arid regions of California, Arizona, and northern Mexico. This architectural plant forms a striking rosette of long, narrow, sword-like leaves with sharp tips. In late spring, it produces an imposing flowering stalk that can reach up to 5 meters (16 feet) tall, adorned with clusters of creamy white, bell-shaped flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators like bees, moths, and hummingbirds. Ideal for xeriscaping or desert-themed gardens, Hesperoyucca whipplei thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Its ability to tolerate extreme drought and poor soil conditions makes it a low-maintenance choice for challenging landscapes. The plant's sharp leaves and tall flower spikes also add a bold, sculptural element to gardens. After flowering, the plant dies back but typically produces offsets, ensuring its continued presence in the garden.

Sowing Advice

Sow in spring. Use a well-draining seed-starting mix and plant seeds 1 cm (0.5 inch) deep. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature of 20–25°C (68–77°F). Germination may take 2–4 weeks. Once seedlings are established, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on until they are large enough to be planted outdoors.

Key Facts