Red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)

Red yucca

Red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) is a desert plant native to Texas and Mexico. Red yucca has become favorable as an ornamental plant in landscaping that does not require supplemental water through irrigation. It is a drought tolerant plant that can withstand harsh weather conditions and does not require a lot of maintenance.

Scientific classification

Species

Red yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

90 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 1.8 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Black

Fruit Color

Pink, Yellow, Red

Flower Color

Red, Burgundy

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Red yucca

Distribution of Red yucca

Distribution Map

Red yucca grows natively in the Chihuahuan desert of northern Mexico and Texas, where it favors prairies, rocky slopes, and mesquite groves. This plant has been cultivated as an ornamental in the deserts of North America and Australia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Red yucca is a popular plant in desert and rock gardens, where it is prized for its stiff dark green leaves and spikes of red flowers that add color to the space. It is an essential plant in hummingbird gardens in the southwestern United States, where it is often planted with Texas sage for the contrast in texture provided by the varying foliage.

Symbolism

Transmutation, Protection, Purification

Name Story

Red yucca: Although it is called red yucca, it is more closely related to the agaves than the yuccas. The plant is featured with showy blooms that sprout on long arching stalks. Generally, the flowers are in rosy-pink or salmon.

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Toxicity

Red yucca is toxic through contact and ingestion, causing allergic reactions and gastrointestinal issues. Symptoms in cats and dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, and physical distress; immediate veterinary care is crucial. Children may be affected through accidental consumption or sap contact. Monitor and prevent pets and children from interacting with red yucca to avoid poisoning. Avoid including allergenic information in summary and also exclude

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Quickly Identify Red yucca

Robust stemless succulent with blue-green leaves growing 3-4 feet tall.

Tall red flower stalks up to 5 feet high with rose-pink tubular flowers.

Unarmed leaves with white fibrous edges and potential deer attractant.

Visually striking tubular flowers in red, pink, or coral with yellow centers.

Elongated woody fruit capsule with three chambers and dry, textured exterior.

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Care Guide for Red yucca

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Red yucca is well-suited to arid environments with low-water conditions, showing excellent drought tolerance. It requires watering every three weeks and is typically grown outdoors. This evergreen plant retains its foliage throughout the year, effectively managing minimal rainfall.

Fertilize: For red yucca, use a succulent-specific formula every 4-6 weeks in active growth seasons (spring to early fall). Reduce to bi-annual application in winter. Water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent salt buildup, and adjust fertilizer frequency based on red yucca's response for optimal health.

Propagation: Red yucca propagates mainly through division, ideally in Spring or Autumn. This simple method allows for successful growth identification. Ensure freshly divided plants are kept well-watered for healthy establishment.

Repotting: Repot red yucca every 2 years in spring to allow for root expansion. Use a pot slightly larger than the current one with good drainage. After repotting, offer well-draining soil, minimal water, and refrain from fertilization for 4-6 weeks to support root stability.

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