Plant Library
Yucca Cane Care Guide
Yucca gigantea (Y. elephantipes)
By the Plantshop.com Editorial Team · Updated · How we research · Report an error
Yucca canes are tough, architectural floor plants with spiky rosettes on woody trunks. They handle dry air and missed waterings well but need a bright window.
Plant profile
- Light
- Bright light with some direct sun
- Water
- When the soil is mostly dry; drought tolerant
- Humidity
- Low
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA) [ASPCA]
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Size
- 3-6 ft indoors
- Growth
- Slow
Light
Bright light with some direct sun. Rotate the pot every few weeks so growth stays even.
Water
When the soil is mostly dry; drought tolerant. Always use a pot with drainage holes and empty the saucer after watering. Plants use far less water in winter.
Humidity and temperature
Humidity: low. Most houseplants prefer 60-80°F (16-27°C) and dislike cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil and feeding
Use a well-draining potting mix with extra grit or perlite. Feed lightly in spring and summer with a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength; skip feeding in winter.
Our tip
Water sparingly in winter; most indoor yuccas die from wet soil, not drought.
Common problems
- Soft trunk: Root rot from overwatering.
- Leaning: Reaching for light.
- Brown leaf tips: Dry soil for too long, or salts.
Pets
Toxic to cats and dogs (ASPCA), according to the ASPCA plant list. If a pet chews it and shows symptoms, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Check any plant in our Pet-Safe Plant Checker.
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