10+
RHS Gold Medals
500+
Rare Varieties
15k+
Happy Customers
Yucca thompsoniana or Thompson’s yucca is an amazingly hardy succulent plant that has stunning blue/silver and yellow foliage. It is very similar to Yucca rostrata, but it is more compact and has stiffer foliage with darker tips. The foliage has yellow stripes to the outer leaf margins and spiky tips. It is rumoured to be hardier than Yucca rostrata which can survive temperatures to -15°C.
Yucca thompsoniana is native to Chihuahua and Coahuila Mexico, Texas USA. It can grow up to 3 metres tall and 80cm to 1 meter wide. Yucca thompsoniana can flower in the early summer and produce a flower spike of up to 1m covered in fragrant white flowers. After flowering it can encourage the plant to form new heads and branch. Once mature you can certainly see the different habit of this plant compared to Yucca rostrata.
Ideal Environment for Yucca thompsoniana
Full Sun
Plant Characteristics
Difficulty
Intermediate
Indicates how easy or challenging this plant is to grow and maintain.
Growth Form
Singular rosette
Describes the natural shape and growth habit of the plant.
Growth Rate
Moderate
How fast the plant grows under ideal conditions.
Minimum Temperature
-15°C
The lowest temperature this plant can tolerate without damage.
Maximum Height & Spread
500 cm x 200 cm
The typical maximum dimensions this plant can reach when mature.
Featured Colour
Cyan
The predominant colours displayed by this plant.
How to Care For Yucca thompsoniana
How often should I water Yucca thompsoniana? 💦 +
The key to watering Yucca thompsoniana is to “soak and dry”. Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to completely dry before watering again. In active growth, this may be every 1–2 weeks, depending on conditions. In cooler months or dormancy, reduce or stop watering to prevent rot. It is recommended to use pots with drainage holes and never let succulents sit in standing water. Overwatering is the most common cause of succulent problems.
What soil is best for Yucca thompsoniana? 🪴 +
Yucca thompsoniana needs free-draining soil to thrive. Use a specialist cactus and succulent mix, or blend compost with horticultural grit, sand, or perlite. This keeps the roots aerated and prevents excess moisture, which can cause root rot. Adding a gritty top-dressing not only looks attractive but also keeps foliage dry, reduces fungus gnats, and helps regulate moisture. Healthy soil is the foundation of successful succulent care.
Does Yucca thompsoniana need fertiliser? 🌱 +
Yes, but only in moderation. Feeding helps maintain healthy growth and strong colours. Use a diluted liquid fertiliser for succulents or a balanced cactus feed during the growing season (spring and summer). Apply every few weeks when watering. Avoid fertilising during dormancy in winter, as plants are resting and don’t need extra nutrients. Too much fertiliser can cause weak, leggy growth, so always err on the side of less.
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Grown by us
All of our plants are grown in-house at our nursery in Cornwall, where they are nurtured from the very beginning by our expert team.
From seedling to maturity, each plant is carefully raised with patience and passion, ensuring strong roots, vibrant growth, and the highest quality. Because they’re grown by us in Cornwall, every plant arrives at your door healthy, unique, and full of character.
Perfectly giftable
Succulents make thoughtful, lasting gifts for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday, celebration, or a treat for someone special, our succulents are a unique way to share living beauty.
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Expert advice
Our carefully written care guides give you all the knowledge you need to grow the best-looking, healthiest plants possible. From winter care and watering advice to seasonal tips, we provide the information you need to help your succulents thrive.
