Mohave Yucca, Yucca schidigera

Photo of three Mohave yucca plants each with large clusters of white flowers

Desert plants and animals are tough. If you brush against a yucca plant in the desert, it may surprise you to note the stiffness of the leaves, no doubt a defense mechanism. The leaves are hard and sturdy. Compare the desert yucca's hard leaves with those of domestic varieties that you encounter in the city.

Family Agavaceae