Small Soapweed (Yucca glauca)

Small Soapweed

Also known as: Great Plains Yucca, Beargrass, Plains Yucca

The small Soapweed (Yucca glauca) is native to North America and thrives in desert conditions. The only insects that can pollinate yucca flowers are yucca moths, and yucca fruits are the only food for yucca moth larvae. Small Soapweed leaves are used for decoration, flooring mats, and cushions, while the roots can be crushed into a lather for use as soap or shampoo.

Scientific classification

Species

Small Soapweed (Yucca glauca)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

61 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

60 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Green, Blue, Gray

Leaf Color

15 cm

Flower Size

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Small Soapweed

Attributes of Small Soapweed

Growth Rate

In Spring and Summer, small Soapweed exhibits a moderate growth rate. This pace allows adequate time for sturdy trunk formation and the development of bluish-green, pointed leaves. The growth speed promotes flower production, typically around late Spring, featuring a cluster of bell-shaped, whitish blooms on a tall, thin stalk, further enhancing small Soapweed's aesthetic appeal. Observational differences in growth speed across seasons are not marked.

Culture

Symbolism

Transmutation, Protection, Purification

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Quickly Identify Small Soapweed

Rosette of stiff, upright, pale green leaves with fibrous hairs and sharp tips (9 inches to 2 1/4 feet)

Greenish-white, bell-shaped pendulous flowers with six petal-like tepals (3 to 4.5 feet)

Elongated capsule fruit (1.6 to 2.4 inches) with glossy black seeds upon dehiscence

Stem typically narrow and unbranched, reaching 2-3 feet with rough surface and light brown color

Sharp-pointed leaves clustered low, 1-2.5 feet, in bluish-green with inrolled margins adorned with white filaments

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Care Guide for Small Soapweed

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Small Soapweed, adapted to arid regions, thrives with minimal moisture and high drought tolerance. Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing soil to dry out. Preferring full sun, small Soapweed is an evergreen with waxy leaves that conserves water, promoting healthy growth in varying temperatures.

Fertilize: For small Soapweed, apply high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizers semi-annually in spring and fall to promote healthy roots and blooms. Young small Soapweed requires more feeding. Adjust nutrient application based on seasonal needs, ensuring proper amounts to maintain plant vitality and resilience while avoiding over-fertilization.

Pruning: Small Soapweed features sharp leaves and tall flower spikes, benefiting from early summer pruning. Remove damaged leaves and trim flower stalks post-bloom to foster new growth. Prune only when necessary to avoid stressing the plant, enhancing air circulation and sunlight exposure for healthier growth.

Propagation: Small Soapweed is a hardy perennial that propagates mainly through seed sowing in well-drained soil. Successful germination requires seed scarification or soaking. Use a starting mix and maintain consistent moisture. Handle seedlings gently for better outdoor transplanting success.

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