Rita Elliott

Yucca and Spanish dagger are two other names for Spanish bayonet.

Spanish Bayonet is an attractive character and the bloom stalk is particularly nice. It will grow happily in the hottest, brightest part of the yard; it will also grow on soil (except clay) where nothing else will. It spreads through shoots at the base of the plant, but it is also easy to propagate; simply cut a piece into sections, set them on bare ground, and give them water to start them up.

Spanish bayonet is native to coastal areas from North Carolina to Mexico and in the West Indies. It also goes by the names Spanish dagger or yucca.

Security Plant

Spanish bayonet may be the ultimate in 'security plants' - it can be planted beneath windows and other access points where its fiercely pointed leaves will prevent passage of all interlopers, human and otherwise.

Therefore, do not plant Spanish bayonet near walkways, patios or in areas frequented by children and pets. This plant can inflict painful puncture wounds even through heavy clothing!

Leaves also contain an oily substance that causes irritation if it breaks your skin.

permanent fixture

Beware also of the fact that, once established, Spanish bayonet is likely to become a permanent fixture. Cutting it down, digging it up - some part of it will survive about anything. Even if you feel you've successfully conquered it, roots can sit dormant for up to 10 years - then reappear.

You have been warned!

TIP: Consider planting a Spanish bayonet in a mid-size clay container if you want to keep the upper hand over it.