How to Grow Yucca thompsoniana Plants in your Garden

Yucca thompsoniana, also known as Thompson’s yucca, is a specimen plant that is often grown as an ornamental centerpiece of a landscape or garden.

The Yucca plant belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is also referred to as Beaked yucca, Soyate, or Palmita. It is a perennial succulent cactus that can grow up to ten feet tall (3 m) and has a spread from 36 to 48 inches (0.9 to 1.3 m). It blooms in spring and summer, and produces fragrant white flowers.

Thompson’s yucca is native to the dry, rocky slopes of Texas and northern Mexico. It thrives in sunny, arid conditions and is resistant to drought. It can also survive in temperatures as low as 10°F (–12°C), making it ideal for a variety of different climates.

Yucca thompsoniana photograph by Megan Hansen.

When coupled with other desert plants such as Chilean Bell Flower, Agaves, and Barrel cacti (Echinocactus, Ferocactus), this plant can help to bring beautiful desert scenery right in your front yard.

Gardener's HQ Guide to Growing Thompson's Yucca

You can grow Thompson’s yucca either outside or in. It can grow in pretty much any type of soil but prefers earth that is dry, sandy, or well drained.

Keep the plant exposed to sun and heat. It is important not to overwater it; once every two weeks is sufficient.

Once planted, the yucca takes three to four weeks to grow, and white flowers will bloom from April to May in its native areas. You can also plant Thompson’s yucca in pots; they should only need to be replaced every other year.

Leave plenty of space when growing Yucca thompsoniana soas to accommodate its large span and extensive root system.

Be aware that, the plant’s sharp leaves can be dangerous for passers-by and pets, so avoid placing them too close to your sidewalk, mailbox, or driveway.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Yucca thompsoniana. You may also enjoy the following drought tolerant plant growing guides:

How to grow African Daisy and our Guide to Heavenly Bamboo.