General Question

metadog's avatar

Can you help me identify this plant?

Asked by metadog (378points) January 23rd, 2010

We have had this tree for 10 years and it is getting huge! I am trying to figure out how to manage it, but I need to figure out what it is and do my research before I do anything to it. Can you help me identify it? Please see the link below:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/creativehaze/4298164212/in/set-72157623268132902/

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7 Answers

gailcalled's avatar

Draecena corn plant? http://www.dracaena.com/dracaena-marginata-red-edged-dracaena.php It looks like a sub-species.

Or a “Ti Tree”?

Response moderated
MRSHINYSHOES's avatar

I believe you have a yucca plant, specifically a Yucca elephantipes, its Latin name. Note the second part of the name “elephantipes”, which suggests it grows to be a huge plant, the size of an “elephant”. Here is a picture, and some information for you metadog. I hope I am correct and was able to help you. :)

http://www.plantoftheweek.org/week188.shtml

gailcalled's avatar

@MRSHINYSHOES: The rough stem looks likely. Good catch.

MissAnthrope's avatar

GQ! My ex had one and even with my thorough Googling, I could not figure out what it was. I just had to use trial and error to figure out how to care for it.

metadog's avatar

I guess the next question I have… this tree is like 9 feet tall. Can I top it? Will that hurt the plant?

gailcalled's avatar

Only one way to find out. Most trees survive pruning or limbing.

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