Related Topics: Succulents

Yuccas

Yucca species and cultivars

Yuccas have drought tolerance and dramatic architectural forms that suit modern landscaping styles. However, some species have dangerous, needle-sharp tips. Fortunately, safer varieties are now available on the market in Queensland.

News

Yucca Warning

The rise and rise of succulents has had a surprising but serious downside.

A Melbourne ear, nose and throat surgeon has reported an increase in ear injuries caused by yucca leaves entering the ear canal.

In some cases, this resulted in permanent hearing loss.

The ABC interview does not specify which type(s) of yucca are the cause. Neither does the first page of the published medical report (free to view without subscription here), but the plant illustrated appears to be Yucca elephantipes

This is certainly the most likely culprit, given how common this species has become in Australian gardens. It can grow many metres tall, so there's a chance it could reach ears at all heights. Of course, eye damage is another potential hazard.

When it was introduced to the market, the relative softness of the leaves compared to other Yucca species was one of its selling points. Still, care clearly needs to be taken when working around these plants or moving potted specimens.

Consider removing them where they encroach onto high-traffic areas, which may be necessary anyway. Yucca elephantipes can grow very large with an enormous woody base and is unsuitable for cramped spaces.

Yucca elephantipes

Now the most common locally planted Yucca species, becoming very popular for quickly creating a compemorary tropical look while being extremely sun and drought tolerant. The leaves have relatively soft tips.

Young plants have an upright form, which has probably encouraged many people to use them in the cramped spaces available in modern gardens. however, they need to be keep well clear of buildings, fences, retaining walls etc because the woody base will expand considerably as the plant matures. The species name literally neams "elephant foot". This will surely present a problem for many homeowners in the future who did not anticipate this.

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