Yucca filamentosa ‘Color Guard’
Overview
Uses: Architectural accent, foundation plantings, borders, containers, drought-tolerant landscapes
Benefits: Bold variegated evergreen foliage, strong structural form, occasional tall white flower spikes in summer
USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–10
Sun: Full Sun to Partial Sun
Life Cycle: Hardy Perennial
Growth Habit: Clump-Forming, Upright Rosette
Foliage Color: Creamy Yellow Center with Deep Green Margins
Mature Height: 3–4 ft (6+ ft when in bloom)
Mature Width: About 4 ft
Bloom Season: Summer (irregular)
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Summary
A bold evergreen accent that delivers year-round structure and summer drama.
Yucca filamentosa ‘Color Guard’ forms upright rosettes of sword-shaped foliage marked with a creamy yellow center stripe and deep green margins. The strong contrast creates architectural interest in both formal and naturalistic plantings.
In summer, mature plants may produce tall flower stalks rising well above the foliage, topped with clusters of creamy white, bell-shaped blooms. Flowering is somewhat irregular but adds impressive vertical height when it occurs.
Once established, this variety performs reliably in dry, low-maintenance landscapes and coastal-style gardens.
Care
Yucca ‘Color Guard’ Care
Plant in full sun for strongest color and compact growth. Partial sun locations (6+ hours) are also suitable.
Grow in sharply well-drained soil. Keep soil moderately moist during establishment, then reduce watering as plants become drought tolerant.
Apply a light application of slow release fertilizer in spring if planted in poor soil.
Avoid consistently wet conditions, as excess moisture may lead to root decline.
Size
What Size is Yucca ‘Color Guard’ for Sale Online?
Plants ship in a greenhouse-grade grow pot and are actively growing at the time of shipment. Each plant is well-rooted and appropriately sized for its container. If you have specific sizing questions, please contact us for additional details.
How Large Does Yucca ‘Color Guard’ Grow?
Mature foliage typically reaches 3–4 feet tall and about 4 feet wide. Flower stalks may rise to 6 feet or more when in bloom.
Additional Information
What are some common names for this plant?
Yucca filamentosa ‘Color Guard’ is commonly referred to as Color Guard Yucca or Adam’s Needle.
Is Yucca ‘Color Guard’ evergreen?
Yes. In most climates within its hardiness range, the foliage remains evergreen year-round. Browse more year-round structure plants in our Evergreen Plants collection.
Is Yucca ‘Color Guard’ drought tolerant?
Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and performs well in dry or low-water landscapes. Explore additional tough landscape options in our Perennials collection.
Is Yucca ‘Color Guard’ deer resistant?
The tough, fibrous foliage is generally avoided by deer.
