The Yucca, often called the palm lily, is a total classic when it comes to houseplants. But here’s the thing: not every variety is actually happy living indoors. If you’re looking to bring one into your home, you’ll want to know which types thrive inside and how to keep them looking their best. Here is everything you need to know about caring for your indoor Yucca.
The Best Varieties for Your Living Room
While there are tons of Yucca species out there, a few stand out as perfect roommates. The *Yucca aloifolia* (Aloe Yucca), the *Yucca elephantipes* (Spineless Yucca), and the *Yucca gloriosa* (Moundlily Yucca) are the most popular choices for indoor gardening. These specific types are great because they don’t grow too fast or get uncontrollably tall too quickly.
When picking out your plant, keep these factors in mind:
- The growth rate of the specific variety
- How much space you actually have in your room
- Where the plant originates (this tells you how much heat it needs!)
Location is everything for these guys. You’ll want to find a spot that gets plenty of bright, natural sunlight. If you tuck a Yucca away in a dark corner, it’s going to struggle to grow and might even give up on you entirely. To keep it thriving, think “sunny and bright.”
How to Care for Your Indoor Yucca
Once you’ve got your Yucca settled in its pot, the most important rule is: don’t overwater! These plants hate “wet feet.” If the soil stays too damp for too long, the roots can start to rot, which is bad news for your plant. It’s much better to let the soil dry out a bit between waterings than to water too frequently.
Every now and then, take a peek at the pot to see if your Yucca is getting cramped. If you start seeing roots poking out of the top of the soil, it’s a clear sign your plant has outgrown its home. That’s your cue to grab a larger pot and repot your Yucca so it has room to breathe.
During the hot summer months, your Yucca will love a “vacation” out on the balcony or patio. They absolutely soak up the warmth and fresh air. And don’t worry if your plant starts getting a bit too tall for your ceiling—you can easily prune your Yucca back to the size you want. They are surprisingly tough and can even handle being cut back right at the trunk, so don’t be afraid to give them a haircut when needed!
