Agaves and yuccas are favorites for water-wise landscapes in desert environments. But, agave plants are also grown as houseplants and yuccas are native plants in Canada where they flower in early summer. Agaves and yuccas attract pollinators and deter deer, beneficial traits in all types of gardens.
Native Perennial Century Plants
Called century plants for their longevity, agaves are hardy perennial plants in zones 9 – 11. The native agaves grow best in full sun, in sandy soil and with near perfect drainage. It is a very slow growing plant and even slower to flower.
Agave has long thick succulent leaves that are spiny along the edges forming a center rosette. The tall flower spike is a cluster of bell-shaped, green, yellow and white flowers that bloom spring through fall. Agaves vary in mature sizes depending on the species but all attract hummingbirds and bees.
Agave Houseplants
A popular succulent houseplant in cold climates is Agave victoriae-reginae, also called queen agave. It is considered small by agave standards reaching 2' tall and 20” wide. The dark green leaves grow 6” long and end in a blunt spine.
In contrast, Agave angustifolia ‘Marginata’ grows to 3’ tall. Northern gardeners who place agave outside in their gardens will immediately have a dramatic display, but will need to relocate them indoors during winter.
Hardy Yucca for Northern Gardens
Yucca plants are natives to the eastern United States coast and hardy as far north as zone 3, the Yucca glauca growing wild in Alberta, Canada. Yucca grows in full sun but tolerates a wider range of soils.
Yuccas are dramatic plants that grow 3’ tall. The bluish green leaves are long and narrow with white margins fringed with loose fibers. The nearly white panicle flowers reach from 3’ – 12’ tall, depending on the species and cultivar.
Gardeners growing yucca in cold climates protect plants from temperature extremes during winter. Puling the leaves together to tie the tips will protect the center of the plant, this should only be done while wearing gloves.
Yucca Plantings with Flowers
Yucca plants are seen in a variety of plantings. Yuccas will grow with roses or perennial geraniums or in containers under-planted with drought tolerant lantana. Yucca plants attract butterflies, as well as, are strong plant structures in flower gardens.
Agave and yucca plants are water-wise plants that will thrive in dry gardens. Each plant is useful for sustainable gardens where water conservation is valued. Southwest gardeners may want to read about more water-wise plants.
Permission received for all photos used in this article.
Chris Eirschele - Chris writes on plants grown and gardens explored; she is a member of the Garden Writers Association.
