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Soaptree Yucca

Yucca elata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Soaptree Yucca is a drought-tolerant succulent native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas that blooms with tall white flower spikes from March through May.

Soaptree Yucca (Yucca elata)
Photo: (c) CK2AZ, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by CK2AZ

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Soaptree Yucca as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

36"–48" H × 24"–48" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AZ, NM, TX

Pollinators

moths

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Soaptree Yucca is a striking architectural succulent with sword-like blue-green leaves arranged in a rosette pattern. In spring, it produces dramatic tall flower spikes with creamy white blooms that can reach several feet above the foliage.

Growing Soaptree Yucca

Grow Soaptree Yucca in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 36 to 48 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Soaptree Yucca takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Insufficient data for HOA assessment

Wildlife value

The fragrant white flowers attract night-flying moths and other pollinators during the spring blooming season.

Common questions

When does Soaptree Yucca bloom?
Soaptree Yucca produces its distinctive tall flower spikes from March through May, displaying clusters of white, bell-shaped flowers.
What pollinates Soaptree Yucca?
Soaptree Yucca has a specialized relationship with yucca moths, which are its primary pollinators. The moths and yucca have co-evolved in a mutually beneficial relationship.
Where is Soaptree Yucca native?
Soaptree Yucca is native to the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, where it thrives in desert and semi-desert environments.
How much water does Soaptree Yucca need?
Soaptree Yucca is extremely drought-tolerant and requires very little water once established. It is adapted to arid conditions and can survive on natural rainfall in its native range.
Is Soaptree Yucca toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Soaptree Yucca as toxic to livestock.
Is Soaptree Yucca HOA-friendly?
Soaptree Yucca takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Soaptree Yucca? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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