Hesperoyucca Whipplei - Cultivation and Uses

Cultivation and Uses

Yucca whipplei is used in xeriscaping in Southern California, but reportedly is difficult to grow outside of its native range (although it is widely available from specialist nurseries in the UK). It is extremely drought tolerant and thrives in clay soils.

It was used extensively by Native Americans

• Fiber from the leaves was used for sandals, cloth, and rope.
• Young flowers are edible but may be bitter.
• Fruits can be eaten raw, roasted, or pounded into meal.
• Seeds were roasted and eaten whole or ground into flour.
• Roots pounded in water produce a lather that was used as soap and shampoo.