Aloe Yucca, or Spanish Bayonet, is an uncommon evergreen shrub found along the immediate coast in North Carolina, north to Dare County. Here at the northern limit of its range the trunks stay fairly short (generally 3-6 feet); they get larger further south.

Carteret Co., NC 4/14/07.

Aloe Yucca is similar to the less common Moundlily Yucca (Yucca gloriosa), but the leaf margins have fine teeth. The leaves of Aloe Yucca are more rigid and sharply pointed. The more common and widespread Yucca filamentosa is easily distinguished by its twisty thread-like filaments that shred off the leaf margins.

Carteret Co., NC 4/14/07.

The teeth are so fine that they may not be noticed without close inspection. The easiest method of identification is by carefully running your fingers slowly along the edge. They are as sharp as a serrated knife!

New Hanover Co., NC 4/12/07.

New Hanover Co., NC 4/12/07.