This succulent species is bearing erect flower stems on the Systematic Beds.
A native of the south-eastern United States Yucca gloriosa var. tristis is synonymous with many Yucca, including Y. recurva, Y. pendula and Y. recurvifolia. It is an evergreen shrub growing to 2.5m in height and bears basal rosettes of stiff, sword-like succulent leaves and erect panicles of cream-white flowers. Introduced to British gardens in 1794 Y. gloriosa var. tristis is a semi-hardy species, growing well in the southern United Kingdom where it can survive frosts and snow, but it requires some protection in colder, wetter regions. The genus Yucca comprises 50 species from Central America and the West Indies, through Mexico to Dakota. All species will grow in a range of soils, but prefer well-drained or sandy soils, and full sun.