Yucca gigantea (spineless yucca)
Spineless yucca from Central America: not a palm but a relative of asparagus. In the wild pollinated by yucca moth — a classic example of plant–insect symbiosis.
Origin and family
Yucca gigantea, or spineless yucca, is a species in the asparagus family (Asparagaceae). Native to Central America (from Mexico to Guatemala and Belize). Despite its "palm-like" appearance — tall trunk and cluster of stiff leaves on top — yucca is not a palm but a monocot, related to asparagus, agave and nolina.
Spineless yucca
Unlike many other yuccas with spiny leaf tips, Y. gigantea has spineless leaves, so it is suitable for landscaping and often grown as a house or container plant. The old name Yucca elephantipes ("elephant foot") refers to the swollen base of the trunk on mature specimens.
Yucca and yucca moth
In the wild Yucca gigantea is pollinated by the specialised yucca moth (Tegeticula and related genera). The female moth collects pollen, carries it to another flower and lays eggs in the ovary; larvae feed on some of the seeds while the plant gets guaranteed pollination. This is one of the best-known examples of obligate mutualism between a plant and an insect.
In the botanical garden
In collections spineless yucca is valued for its architectural form, ease of care and tolerance of dry air. It needs light, well-drained soil and moderate watering; in warm climates it is planted outdoors, in temperate regions it is kept in containers with winter shelter indoors.
Quick Answer
Yucca gigantea is spineless yucca in the asparagus family, native to Central America; not a palm. In the wild pollinated by yucca moth (obligate mutualism).