“The yucca is a striking architectural plant that can add a dramatic focal point to a room as long as it has the correct growing conditions to keep it healthy and strong,” says Lisa Eldred Steinkopf, founder of The Houseplant Guru and author of four books, including Houseplants: The Complete Guide. Just make sure the window you place it near isn’t damp or drafty. A “spot near a drafty window or the shade may not be a good location, especially in the winter,” says Margaret McCoy, Ph.D., of True Organic. You also don’t want to place your plant near any vents, as the blowing air may disrupt its leaves, explains Pangborn. “Water your yucca by adding water until it runs out the drainage hole, making sure the entire root ball is moistened,” says Steinkopf. She suggests that you never let your plant sit in water, so be sure to empty its saucer after you’ve watered it. Make sure to wait for the soil to dry out between waterings before giving your plant another drink. “Let them approach almost complete dryness before you water again,” says Raffaele Di Lallo, houseplant expert, author of Houseplant Warrior, and founder of Ohio Tropics. “They grow in the drier parts of the tropics, so you should try and mimic these same conditions indoors.” Grow lights like these can be an option if you’re concerned there isn’t sufficient light in your home. “If you don’t have enough sun to support this plant, supplemental light such as a spotlight could be hung over the plant,’’ says Steinkopf. “Using a good cactus/succulent potting mix, to which you can add some perlite or pumice for added drainage, as well as some additional coarse sand, would work well,” says Di Lallo. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time in her garden, experimenting with ingredients in the kitchen, or spending time by the ocean. See her portfolio on her website.
