Mohave yucca (Yucca schidigera, Gartenflora 20: 110 (1871))

Family: Asparagaceae

Author: Roezl ex Ortgies

Bibliography: Gartenflora 20: 110 (1871)

Year: 1871

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Yucca

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. Nevada to Mexico (Baja California)

Description

The Mohave Yucca, scientifically known as Yucca schidigera, is a remarkable and robust plant native to the arid regions stretching from Southern Nevada to Mexico, including Baja California. This striking member of the Asparagaceae family stands out for its adaptability to harsh desert climates and its intriguing botanical features.

First formally described in 1871 by Roezl ex Ortgies in Gartenflora, the Mohave Yucca is characterized by its tall, sturdy structure, which can often reach impressive heights. The plant’s sword-like leaves are sharp and rigid, presenting a formidable appearance while serving as a defense mechanism against herbivores. These leaves grow in dense rosettes that not only enhance the plant’s resilience against drought but also contribute to its unique aesthetic and structural form.

The Mohave Yucca is particularly notable for its reproductive system, which features tall flowering stalks that can rise several feet above the main body of the plant. The inflorescences bear clusters of creamy white, bell-shaped flowers that are both visually captivating and crucial to the local ecosystem. The flowers of Yucca schidigera rely on a mutualistic relationship with certain species of yucca moths for pollination, showcasing a fascinating example of co-evolution and interdependence in the natural world.

Ecologically, Yucca schidigera plays a vital role in its native habitat. It provides food and shelter to a variety of desert wildlife, including insects, reptiles, and mammals. Its presence helps stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it an integral component of the desert’s delicate environmental balance.

In addition to its ecological significance, the Mohave Yucca has been utilized by indigenous cultures for centuries. The fibers extracted from its leaves are exceptionally strong and have been traditionally used to make ropes, baskets, and sandals. Furthermore, the plant has found contemporary applications in various industries. Its extracts are employed in animal feed, as well as in natural products for skin care and dietary supplements, praised for their potential health benefits.

Despite its toughness and utility, the Mohave Yucca faces challenges from habitat destruction and climate change. Conservation efforts are essential to protect this iconic species and ensure that it continues to thrive in its natural environment.

In conclusion, Yucca schidigera, the Mohave Yucca, is a plant of great ecological, cultural, and economic importance. Its distinctive appearance, fascinating biology, and historical significance make it a subject of interest not only to botanists and ecologists but also to those who appreciate the intricate beauty and resilience of desert flora.

Common Names

Spa: izote de ensenada
Eng: mohave yucca, mojave yucca
En: Mohave yucca, Mojave yucca, Spanish dagger
Es: Izote de Ensenada

Synonyms

• Yucca californica (Nutt. ex Baker)
• Yucca mohavensis (Sarg.)
• Sarcoyucca mohavensis ((Sarg.) Linding.)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Habit

Taken Dec 9, 2011 by EOL − Anita (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 22, 2012 by EOL − Justin (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 10, 2014 by EOL − Charlie Hohn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 10, 2014 by EOL − Don Endicott (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 27, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Apr 1, 2016 by EOL − Neil Frakes (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 2, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Mar 17, 2015 by EOL − Sara (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 27, 2022 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 10, 2022 by pen meyer (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Nov 5, 2022 by tuntun (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 8, 2022 by Forns Pau (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 15, 2019 by Cano César (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 25, 2020 by Alex Chmiel (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 13, 2019 by NOMBLOT NOMBLOT Martine (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Dec 17, 2020 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2019 by Dantas André (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Aug 1, 2010 by herve rey (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 13, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 27, 2013 by EOL − snakeinmypocket (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2775710)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60445117-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Yucca schidigera Roezl ex Ortgies)

Specifications

Growth habit: Tree, Shrub, Forb/herb

Growth