Yucca Australis Data Sheet

• Common names: Palma China

• Latin name: Yucca Australis

• Genus: Yucca

• Height: 30 ft

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 7

• Conservation status: No Data

Yucca Australis is often referred to as Palma China. The leaves are long (up to 20" long) with slight white markings along the bladed edges. Leaves are a dark green colour. The flower stalks hang from the trunk rather than the traditional upright arrangement usually found with yuccas. Flowers are around 2" long with a creamy white colour.

This Species is native to Mexico, mainly around the Chihuahuan Desert regions. This is a large frost hardy yucca, and will tolerate temperatures down to -15C. The Maximum height is up to 30 ft. There are instances where a 5 ft trunk diameter has been reported.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment as such. Germination time can be reduced by soaking the black seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard shell prior to sowing. Once soaked, fill trays or pots with quality compost and firm down gently. Spread seeds across the surface; around 10 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Compost should be kept damp, not soaking wet or dried out. A temperature of between 60F and 70F is perfect for yucca germination. Place pots or trays on a cool to warm windowsill or in a cool conservatory. Germination should occur at 1–3 weeks, depending on the soaking process, germination can take up to 8 weeks.

Post Germination

Keep seedlings in a bright, well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of damping off disease; a windowsill is ideal. Ensure they don't dry out or become waterlogged. These seedlings will quickly develop a large root system. They can be separated into 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside all year. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.