A tough character who is always there for you: that’s the yucca, or palm lily. With an irresistible combination of strength and modesty it’s a plant that will make a perfect friend.
Colours and shapes
The yucca has long pointy leaves that grow directly out of the soil or out of a trunk. The leaves are green, sometimes with touch of creamy white or yellow, and have a sharp edge. But that says nothing about this houseplant’s nature: the yucca is actually very easy going, and can comfortably reach a height of 2.5 metres.
Despite its modesty, yucca has quite a few symbolic meanings. These include new opportunities, loyalty, protection and purity. That latter one is probably derived from this palm’s air-purifying talents.
Yucca originally grew wild in the southern United States, South America and the Caribbean. The plant flourishes in desert regions, and thereby enjoys sun and relative dryness. Some wild species also flower, but don’t expect that of your domestic yucca.