Wide-Leaf False Yucca
Hesperaloe chiangii
Family: Asparagaceae
This unarmed plant is characterized by wide, deep green leaves that are edged with coarse white filaments. It can form large clusters from underground stems with time. Hesperaloe chiangii sends up an eight to twelve foot high flower stalk in late spring or early summer with cream-colored, nocturnal flowers. Plants get 6’ tall and about 8’ wide. This plant was formerly considered a subspecies of H. funifera.
Photo by Mountain States Wholesale Nursery
Hesperaloe chiangii on iNaturalist
Plant in full to part sun, even reflective heat is tolerated. Low water when established, though a drink once or twice a month keeps plants looking good. Cold hardy, to 10°F.
Plants are attractive to hummingbirds and other nectar-seeking birds, insects, etc. If you don’t want to expensively feed javalinas, protect these plants as they are loved by them. The dried, leftover stems of Hesperaloe are used by some solitary bee species for larval nests.
Hesperaloe are a good choice for people who don’t like spikey plants, since the stems are softer and relatively harmless.
The genus Hesperaloe is derived from the Greek word hesperos, meaning "western," and aloe. It’s unclear what the specific epithet chiangii means but it could be derived from Chinese 城 meaning "fort, castle".
Native to San Luis Potosí, Mexico in desert and dry scrubland.