The habit, after flowering, is generally to form offsets, when the plant loses much of its former boldness and effect. From the lateness of its blooming period, and a lack of suitable conditions, it does not ripen seed in our climate, and it must of necessity be raised from seed ripened in more favourable climes.
The following are said to be some of its varieties, bearing useful descriptive names: Y. g. pendula, having a pendulous habit or reflexed leaves; Y. g. plicata, having plaited leaves; Y. g. minor, a lesser form in its various parts. There are other reputed varieties of more doubtful descent.
For cultivation see Y. recurva.
Yucca Recurva.
Recurve-leaved Yucca; Common Name, Weeping Yucca; Nat. Ord. Liliaceæ.
This is a charming species, perfectly hardy and evergreen; it was brought from Georgia about ninety years ago.
The flowers are a greenish-white, and undesirable where the shrub is grown for the sake of its ornamental qualities; fortunately they are far from being constant in their appearance. September is its blooming period in our climate. The leaves are its main feature; with age it becomes rather tall, 6ft. to 9ft. high, having a woody hole or caudex, which is largely concealed by the handsome drooping foliage; a few of the youngest leaves from the middle of the tuft remain erect. The whole specimen is characterised by its deep green and glossy foliage, combined with a most graceful habit. Few things can be planted with such desirable effect as this shrub; it puts a stamp on the landscape, parterre and shrubland, and when well grown forms a landmark in the most extensive garden.
Fig. 112. Yucca Recurva.
(one-eighteenth natural size.)