Adam's needle (Yucca filamentosa)
Care, watering, light and tips for Adam's needle on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 14 days
- Light: Indirect light
- Temperature: 10–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Adam's needle
Yucca filamentosa, also known as "Spoon-leaf Yucca," is an evergreen perennial native to the southeastern United States. It is characterized by its rosettes of stiff, sword-shaped leaves with curly filaments along the edges, and a tall flower stalk emerging in summer with bell-shaped white flowers. It's an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens, xeriscaping, or as a focal point in large containers.
Native range
Southeastern United States
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be infrequent, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as it is highly drought-tolerant. Use a well-draining substrate, preferably sandy or a mix designed for cacti and succulents. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot; it's better to under-water than over-water this species.
How to save a dying Adam's needle
- Warning signs
- Soft, yellowing or brown leaves from the base. Dry, brittle tips.
- First aid
- Check drainage, reduce watering. Remove damaged leaves. Place in full sun, well-drained soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and lack of direct sun, which rot its roots and base.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't advanced far into the central stem. Needs sun and good drainage.