False Yucca

False Yucca – Hesperaloe: Tough Beauty with a Hummingbird Twist!

A heat- and drought-tolerant family of perennials ideal for Austin. Arching, grass-like foliage and tall flower spikes bloom from late spring through summer. Tubular flowers—typically red, coral, pink, or yellow—attract hummingbirds and other pollinators.  The plant’s tough, evergreen form offers year-round structure. Native to arid regions of Texas and northern Mexico, Hesperaloe thrives in full sun, well-drained soil, and low-water conditions. Hot, reflected-heat areas (curbs, driveways, medians) Highly deer-resistant and virtually carefree once established.

Common Varieties for Austin

1. Brakelights: Compact, intense color; ideal for small spaces and containers. Mature Size: 2-3ft H x 2-3ft W
2. Desert Flamenco: Upright, refined form with vivid coral-pink flowers; strong bloom performance. Mature Size: 3–4 ft H x 3–4 ft W
3. parviflora: Classic red yucca; tall bloom stalks.                                    Mature Size: 3-5ft H x 3-4ft W
4. Little Miss Sunshine: Compact with golden-variegated foliage; tidy and eye-catching. Mature Size: 2-3ft H x 2-3ft W
5. Little Giant: Dense, clean habit; coral-red prolific flowering; smaller form. Mature Size: 3-4ft H x 4-5ft W
6. Perpa: Yellow-flowered form of red yucca. Mature Size: 3-4ft H x 3-4ft W
7. Pink Parade: Vigorous, large hybrid; blooms heavily with bold pink color. Mature Size: 4-5ft H x 5-6ft W
8. Stoplights: Rounded habit, vivid red blooms; compact and colorful in beds or containers. Mature Size: 2-3ft H x 2-3ft W

Caring for Hesperaloe

Full sun (6+ hours daily) Avoid heavy clay or consistently wet soils (especially in winter). Water deeply but infrequently once established (every 2–4 weeks during dry periods). For new plants: water weekly until established (about one growing season). Cut back flower stalks after blooming to maintain form.