Yucca filamentosa 'Color Guard' (Adam's Needle)
Adam's Needle 'Color Guard', Carolina Silk Grass 'Color Guard', Needle Palm 'Color Guard', Our Lord's Candle 'Color Guard', Spoonleaf Yucca 'Color Guard', Thready Adam's Needle 'Color Guard', Spanish Bayonet 'Color Guard'Yucca filamentosa ‘Color Guard’, commonly known as Adam’s Needle, is a stunning evergreen perennial prized for its dramatic variegated foliage and architectural presence. This plant features sword-shaped leaves with bright yellow centers and green edges, accented by curly white filaments along the margins. During winter, the foliage takes on a pink or rose hue, adding seasonal interest. In early to midsummer, tall flower stalks emerge, reaching heights of 4–6 feet, adorned with creamy white, bell-shaped blooms that attract pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
Native to the southeastern United States, this hardy plant thrives in USDA Zones 4–10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It grows to a height of 2–3 feet and spreads 2–3 feet wide, forming a dense rosette of foliage. Its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils make it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, coastal gardens, and rock gardens.
Planting and Care Instructions
- Light Requirements: Yucca ‘Color Guard’ thrives in full sun, where it develops its brightest colors. It can tolerate partial shade, but reduced sunlight may dull its vibrant foliage.
- Soil and Watering: This plant prefers well-drained soil and is highly drought-tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to root rot. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the plant’s root ball. Place the plant at the same depth it was growing in its container, and backfill with soil. Space plants 2–3 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation.
- Maintenance: Minimal care is required. Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to maintain a tidy appearance. Prune dead or damaged leaves as needed. In colder climates, provide winter protection to prevent foliage damage.
- Propagation: Propagate by removing rooted suckers or taking root cuttings in winter.
- Pests and Diseases: Yucca ‘Color Guard’ is virtually pest-free and resistant to deer and rabbits. It may occasionally experience aphids or leaf spot, but these issues are rare.
With its striking foliage, drought tolerance, and low-maintenance nature, Yucca filamentosa ‘Color Guard’ is a versatile and resilient addition to any garden. Whether used as a focal point, in containers, or as part of a border, it brings year-round beauty and interest.
