Spanish Dagger
Yucca treculeana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Yucca treculeana (Spanish Dagger) is a drought-tolerant evergreen succulent native to Texas that produces tall spikes of white flowers from March to May. This hardy plant attracts butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds while requiring minimal water.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
156"–180" H × 48"–60" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies, moths, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spanish Dagger is a dramatic architectural succulent that grows 13-15 feet tall with sharp, sword-like leaves arranged in a rosette. It produces spectacular spikes of creamy white flowers in spring that can reach several feet tall. This slow-growing native is extremely drought tolerant once established.
Growing Spanish Dagger
Grow Spanish Dagger in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 156 to 180 inches tall and spread 48 to 60 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spanish Dagger 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.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
The large flower spikes attract butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds during spring blooming season. The plant also provides nesting sites for desert birds.
Common questions
- When does Spanish Dagger bloom?
- Yucca treculeana typically blooms from March through May, producing dramatic tall spikes of creamy white bell-shaped flowers.
- What pollinators visit Spanish Dagger?
- Spanish Dagger attracts butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds. The plant has a specialized relationship with yucca moths for pollination.
- Where is Yucca treculeana native?
- Spanish Dagger is native to Texas and northeastern Mexico, thriving in arid and semi-arid regions of South Texas.
- How much water does Spanish Dagger need?
- Yucca treculeana is extremely drought-tolerant and requires very little water once established. It actually prefers dry conditions and can be damaged by overwatering.
- Is Spanish Dagger HOA-friendly?
- Spanish Dagger 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.
Does Spanish Dagger fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.