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Form/flower

Agavaceae

Banana yucca grows on rocky ledges and slopes as well as on grassland plains and woodlands in the western part of the Edwards Plateau and into the Trans-Pecos. It is usually stemless and may be single or clumped. The clumps may extend as much as 20 feet in diameter, with as many as 70 rosettes. The bluish-green, sword-shaped leaves are thick and rigid, with short curved (or sometimes long and wavy) fibers on the margins. The flowers usually grow only to within 8 inches above the tallest leaves. The seedpod varies in size from 4 to 9 inches long and 2 to 3 inches in circumference. It is green to dark purple, edible, and somewhat banana-like in shape, hence the common name. Banana yucca doesn't bloom every year. It is believed that flowering is very demanding of its carbohydrate reserves and that plants must recuperate a few years before blooming again.

Plant Habit or Use: small shrub

Exposure: sun
partial sun

Flower Color: white, cream tinged with purple

Blooming Period: spring

Fruit Characteristics: fleshy capsule

Height: 2 to 2 3/4 feet to 3 feet with flower stalk

Width: to 6 feet

Plant Character: evergreen

Heat Tolerance: high

Water Requirements:

Soil Requirements: adaptable

USDA Hardiness Zone: 6

Additional Comments: