Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ – A Bold Architectural Evergreen for Year-Round Impact
Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’, also known as the Variegated Spanish Dagger, is a striking evergreen plant prized for its dramatic form and colourful foliage. This slow-growing architectural shrub makes an unforgettable statement with its sword-like leaves edged in creamy yellow, providing interest and structure throughout the year. In summer, mature plants produce tall spikes of bell-shaped white flowers, creating a striking contrast against the bold foliage.
This hardy and drought-tolerant plant is ideal for adding texture and shape to a variety of garden styles, from Mediterranean and coastal to contemporary or gravel gardens. Whether planted in beds, borders, or large containers, Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ brings lasting impact with minimal maintenance.
Why Grow Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’?
Year-Round Interest
The bold, variegated leaves make a statement in every season. Their rigid form and sharp colour definition bring architectural elegance even in the depths of winter.
Summer Blooms
In summer, mature plants send up tall flower spikes topped with clusters of creamy white, bell-shaped blooms—a striking and unexpected floral display from such a bold, spiky plant.
Drought-Tolerant & Low-Maintenance
Once established, Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ thrives with little water, making it ideal for dry or coastal gardens. It’s a resilient, unfussy plant that asks very little but gives a lot.
Versatile Design Choice
Perfect for containers, borders, or as a focal point in minimalist and modern garden designs. It pairs beautifully with gravel, rocks, or paving and works well with silver or blue-toned companion plants.
Planting & Care Guide
Position:
Prefers full sun for best variegation and flowering. Will tolerate some light shade but thrives in bright, open spots. Choose a sheltered site to avoid damage from cold winds in winter.
Soil:
Best in well-drained soil. It tolerates poor or sandy soils and is suitable for coastal conditions. Avoid heavy, waterlogged areas.
Watering:
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. After that, occasional watering is sufficient—even during dry periods.
Maintenance:
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Remove dead leaves as needed to keep the plant tidy.
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Cut spent flower spikes after blooming to maintain a clean shape.
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In very cold climates, protect young plants with fleece during harsh frosts.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ makes a stunning contrast when paired with softer, flowing perennials such as:
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Lavender – complements the foliage while enhancing a Mediterranean look.
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Stipa tenuissima (Mexican Feather Grass) – softens the structure with wispy texture.
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Eryngium (Sea Holly) – mirrors the spiky form and adds silver-blue tones.
For a modern design, use it alongside Agave, Phormium, or Euphorbia, or for a more tropical flair, try combining with Cannas, Banana plants, or Cordyline australis.
Whether you're looking to enhance your garden with dramatic form, evergreen interest, or a touch of the exotic, Yucca gloriosa ‘Variegata’ is a reliable and visually striking choice. Its unique combination of toughness and beauty makes it a must-have for any garden that values both style and substance.
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.