Spanish Bayonet-Yucca harrimaniae

This distinctive plant is the only yucca found in the area. A member of the Agave Family (Agavaceae), it is Spanish bayonet (Yucca harrimaniae). It is sometimes called Harriman's yucca or narrow leaf yucca.

The large, whitish flowers are waxy-feeling and open towards the ground. They have a fascinating relationship with their pollinator, the Pronuba moth (Tegeticula yuccasella). The moth drills a hole into the ovary of the flower, lays its eggs, and manages to pollinate the flower in the process. The flower provides food for the newly hatched larvae. If you look closely at the flowers, you can find the tiny drill hole. 

For more information about Spanish bayonet and the Pronuba moth, click here.