Yucca x schottii [IB206]

Extra large form of this tree of 4' steely blue swords to 15' over time, likes water. “Mountain Yucca” is a species from relatively wet, mountainous areas of southeast Arizona, southwest New Mexico and adjacent northern Mexico, that deserves more attention. A tall and stately plant to 20' with a symmetrical crown of sharp-tipped leaves, it is still rare in cultivation but should be very adaptable, handling partial shade (though best in full sun), cold temperatures, and moisture. Although the leaves are usually blue-green in the wild, all plants I have seen in cultivation have blue leaves. It thrives in Seattle, and its symmetrical form and screaming blue color are unparalleled. It has recently been reclassified as Y. madrensis but I think I will stick with the name Y. schottii for now to avoid confusion. This collection from the Atascosa Mountains, Arizona, represents exceptionally robust plants with very long leaves. This form should be hardy to at least 0 °F, perhaps lower. It's hard to choose, but this is my favorite Yucca, and, with some summer water, probably the best really large Yucca for the Seattle area.