Cold-hardy southeastern North American native yucca with sword-shaped leaves edged in curling white threads, and tall summer panicles of cream bell flowers. Leaf fibre was a key cordage source for southeastern Indigenous peoples.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 4–10 | −34.4 °C to 4.4 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H6 | −20 °C to −15 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 5–9 | −23 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 2–6 | −10 °C to 15 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
Growing notes
- Leaf fibre extracted by retting or by scraping — historically used for cordage, sandals, and basketry by southeastern Native American peoples
- White curling marginal threads (filaments) on the leaves give rise to both the species name and the common name "Adam’s needle"
- Among the hardiest yuccas — succeeds well into USDA zone 4
- Drought tolerant once established — excellent on poor sandy soils
Categories
Related plants
Cross-check Adam’s needle against your zones