Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' – A Striking Evergreen with Bold, Variegated Foliage and Architectural Form
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' is a stunning, evergreen perennial known for its bold, sword-shaped leaves adorned with yellow and cream variegation along the edges. Native to the southeastern United States, this hardy and drought-tolerant plant adds architectural interest and year-round beauty to gardens, borders, and containers. In summer, it produces tall spikes of creamy white flowers, which contrast beautifully against the sharp foliage, adding a striking touch of elegance to any landscape. With its minimal care requirements and robust nature, it’s a perfect addition for low-maintenance or water-wise gardens.
Why Grow Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'?
Striking Variegated Foliage – The plant’s bold, sword-like leaves are edged with creamy yellow or white, creating a vibrant and unique look. The variegation provides a splash of colour that lasts year-round, even in winter.
Architectural Form – With its upright, spiky form, Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ is an excellent choice for adding structure and texture to gardens. Its strong presence makes it a focal point in any landscape.
Hardy and Drought-Tolerant – Once established, this yucca is highly drought-tolerant and resilient, making it ideal for water-wise gardens or xeriscaping, as well as low-maintenance landscapes.
Bold Flower Spikes – In summer, tall spikes of creamy white flowers emerge, rising above the foliage, adding an elegant touch of softness and contrast to the plant’s bold structure. The flowers also attract pollinators, such as bees and hummingbirds.
Low Maintenance – Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ requires minimal care and is relatively pest-resistant, making it a great option for busy gardeners.
Height of Plant
Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' typically grows to a height of 1.2–1.5 meters (4–5 feet) and spreads about 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet) wide, making it perfect for creating a striking focal point in garden beds or borders. Its upright, clumping form is ideal for adding structure to a variety of landscapes.
Where to Site Your Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'
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Sandy or Well-Drained Soil, where it can thrive in dry conditions. Perfect for xeriscaping or drought-tolerant gardens.
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Borders or garden beds, where its bold foliage creates a dramatic statement and contrasts beautifully with other plants.
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Rock gardens or Mediterranean-style gardens, where its unique form adds a touch of architectural elegance.
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Containers, ideal for patios, decks, or as a statement plant in large pots.
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Coastal gardens, as it is tolerant of salt and wind, making it a great choice for coastal landscaping.
How to Grow and Care for Your Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata'
Soil – Prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils. It tolerates poor, dry soils but requires excellent drainage to prevent root rot. If you have heavy clay soils, ensure the area is raised or add organic material to improve drainage.
Light – Best grown in full sun for optimal growth and vibrant variegation. While it can tolerate some light shade, full sun encourages the best colour in the foliage and more prolific flowering.
Watering – Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and requires little water, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance or water-wise gardens.
Maintenance:
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Pruning – Minimal pruning is needed. You can trim dead or damaged leaves as necessary, especially after winter. Remove spent flower spikes after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance.
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Feeding – Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ generally does not require frequent feeding, but you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage strong growth.
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Mulching – Apply a light layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid piling it against the stem, as it prefers well-drained conditions.
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Pest & Disease Resistance – Generally pest-resistant. Occasionally, it may suffer from scale or spider mites, but these issues are rare and manageable. It’s also fairly resistant to diseases such as rot or mildew.
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Cold Hardy – Hardy in USDA Zones 6–10, meaning it can tolerate a variety of climates, from cooler regions to warmer, subtropical environments. In areas with harsh winters, it may benefit from some winter protection.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ pairs beautifully with succulents, agave, and cacti for a desert-inspired garden. It also contrasts well with ornamental grasses like blue fescue, or lavender, providing both texture and a variety of colour tones.
For tropical or Mediterranean-style gardens, combine with palms, aloe, or echium for a bold, architectural display.
In coastal gardens, it pairs well with sea grasses, lavender, and hardy shrubs that can tolerate salt and wind, creating a low-maintenance yet striking landscape.
With its eye-catching variegated foliage, dramatic form, and easy care, Yucca gloriosa 'Variegata' is an excellent choice for a variety of garden styles. Whether used in rock gardens, containers, or as a focal point in your landscape, it brings beauty and interest year-round with minimal maintenance.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
