Giant spanish dagger (Yucca carnerosana)

Giant spanish dagger

Giant spanish dagger (Yucca carnerosana) is a tree-like yucca plant native to Mexico's northeast and a limited part of western Texas in the U.S. It can grow to 6 m tall. It is drought-tolerant and will grow in a variety of soils, including limestone. It produces a stalk covered in clusters of white flowers every 3 to 4 years. These massive stalks can grow to 2 m tall and weigh over 70 pounds.

Scientific classification

Species

Giant spanish dagger (Yucca carnerosana)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Giant spanish dagger

Distribution of Giant spanish dagger

Distribution Map

Giant spanish dagger is indigenous to the arid and semi-arid regions of the North American continent. Its presence is particularly noted in the southwestern areas, where it thrives in the desert and chaparral ecosystems. While giant spanish dagger has not been widely introduced outside its native range, it occasionally appears in arid landscape settings around the world.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Limestone, dry rocky slopes in desert scrub or pine-oak forest

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Transmutation, Protection, Purification

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Giant spanish dagger

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, giant spanish dagger is drought-tolerant and stores water in its thick leaves. Thriving in low humidity, it requires minimal watering every 2-3 weeks. Preferring full sun and well-draining soil, giant spanish dagger effectively utilizes moisture through its robust root system.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, giant spanish dagger benefits from low-frequency fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer in spring and a high-nitrogen mix during the growing season, applying quarterly at half-strength. Adjust feeding in winter and sprinkle granular fertilizer around the base to enhance flowering and overall health.

Pruning: Giant spanish dagger features sword-like leaves and tall flower spikes, benefiting from early to late winter pruning. Remove dead or yellowing leaves to improve airflow and pest resistance, and trim spent flower stalks to enhance growth. This practice supports plant health and aesthetic appeal.

Propagation: Giant spanish dagger propagates effectively through cuttings. Use a sterile knife to take a cutting just below a leaf node. Allow the cut end to callous for a few days, then plant in well-draining soil, watering sparingly to prevent root rot. With care, the cutting will root and thrive.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Giant spanish dagger