When I saw this plant many years ago in Los Angeles, it struck me as a cross between Agave americana and Phormium tenax. It had the structural form of the first, with the soft, cascading blades of the second. It was grouped en masse, completely blanketing a hillside, making a subdued yet undeniable statement. The bold design perfectly set off, and yet at the same time blended in, the new modern house on the block with its surroundings. At that time, I had no idea what this plant was. Since then, I've seen it lightly sprinkled around the East Bay and its nurseries.
In terms of behavior, Beschorneria yuccoides clumps over time, sending out pups at the center to eventually become a rounded mass. It sends out red flowering stalks, that contrast its gray green leaves beautifully. Thankfully, when the stalk withers, the plant itself stays intact.
At the UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley, they have a Beschorneria yuccoides by the front gate, which is the best application that I've seen in these parts. It sits at the corner of the planting bed, surrounded by a towering Otatea acuminata aztecorum (on its right), and a stunning Agave whipplei (on its left). Learning from this example, this broad-leafed plant pairs well with fine leafed plants, in a roomy spot that can show off its form. Another great perk is that it won't poke anybody's eye out.
Details:
Biological Name: Beschorneria yuccoides
Common Name: Amole
Family: Agavaceae (Agaves)
Origin: Mexico (North America)
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Low Water Needs
Flower Time: Summer
Height: 4-6’
Width: 4-6’
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