rom the order to which the genus belongs,
are lily-like, or bell-shaped; they are of a greenish white colour,
arranged in lax clusters on stoutish stalks. The leaves are 12in. to
2ft. long, 3in. or more broad in their widest parts, concave or
boat-shaped, sharp pointed, glaucous, sometimes slightly plicate, rigid,
and leathery.

The habit, after flowering, is generally to form offsets, when the plant
loses much of its former boldness and effect. From the lateness of its
blooming period, and a lack of suitable conditions, it does not ripen
seed in our climate, and it must of necessity be raised from seed
ripened in more favourable climes.

The following are said to be some of its varieties, bearing useful
descriptive names: _Y. g. pendula_, having a pendulous habit or reflexed
leaves; _Y. g. plicata_, having plaited leaves; _Y. g. minor_, a lesser
form in its various parts. There are other reputed varieties of more
doubtful descent.

For cultivation see _Y. recurva_.

Yucca Recurva.

RECURVE-LEAVED YUCCA; _Common Name_, WEEPING YUCCA;
_Nat. Ord._ LILIACEAE.

This is a charming species, perfectly hardy and evergreen; it was
brought from Georgia about ninety years ago.

The flowers are a greenish-white, and undesirable where the shrub is
grown for the sake of its ornamental qualities; fortunately they are far
from being constant in their appearance. September is its blooming
period in our climate. The leaves are its main feature; with age it
becomes rather tall, 6ft. to 9ft. high, having a woody hole or caudex,
which is largely concealed by the handsome drooping foliage; a few of
the youngest leaves from the middle of the tuft remain erect. The whole
specimen is characterised by its deep green and glossy foliage, combined
with a most graceful habit. Few things can be planted with such
desirable effect as this shrub; it puts a stamp on the landscape,
parterre and shrubland, and when well grown forms a landmark in the most
extensive garden.

[Illustration: FIG. 112. YUCCA RECURVA

(one-eighteenth natural size.)]

For all the species and varieties of Yucca the mode of culture is not
only similar but simple. They have long roots of a wiry texture. These
denote that they require deep soil, light, and rather dry. Sandy loam,
light vegetable soil, or marl and peat grow them well. Raised beds or
borders, the higher parts of rockwork, or any open position, thoroughly
drained, will not only be conducive to thei