Spanish Dagger is a striking evergreen shrub native to the coastal plains and sandy woodlands from North Carolina to Florida. This variegated form of Yucca gloriosa grows as a single-stemmed plant reaching 2-4 feet tall and wide, densely clothed in sword-shaped, spine-tipped blue-green leaves that can stretch up to 30 inches long. In mid-summer, it produces showy flower spikes that attract butterflies and pollinators. Hardy from zones 6 through 10, it thrives in full sun and tolerates drought, poor soils, and urban conditions with virtually no maintenance required.
Full Sun
Moderate
6-10
48in H x 48in W
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Moderate
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Spanish Dagger's dense mound of dramatic, sword-like foliage creates year-round architectural interest in any landscape, and its tolerance for drought, poor sandy soils, and erosion makes it nearly indestructible. The showy summer blooms arrive reliably in July and August, drawing butterflies and other pollinators to the garden. Deer and rabbits leave it alone, while it stands unfazed by urban pollution and salt spray, making it equally at home on a coastal property or in the heart of the city.
Spanish Dagger functions primarily as an ornamental focal point in drought-tolerant gardens, coastal landscapes, and xeriscape designs. Its architectural form and low maintenance needs make it valuable in urban gardens, erosion control projects, and any setting where toughness and visual impact matter more than delicate beauty. The showy summer flowers serve as a reliable pollinator attractant in native plant gardens.
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“Yucca gloriosa is native to the coastal plains, dunes, and sandy woods stretching from North Carolina to Florida, where it has thrived in harsh, nutrient-poor environments for centuries. This particular variegated selection represents a refinement of the species, selected and propagated to highlight the ornamental qualities of its foliage and flowers while maintaining the remarkable toughness that made the wild form a staple of American coastal landscapes.”