Banana Yucca
Yucca baccata

Family: Asparagus (Asparagaceae)
AKA: Broad Leaf Yucca, Indian Banana
Photo taken on: May 28, 2008
Location: Bandelier National Monument, NM
Life Zones: Plains to foothills
Habitat: Canyons, dry openings, slopes

The stiff, broad leaves grow to 2½ feet long with a sharp point and fibrous edges. The large, waxy flowers grow in drooping clusters on a stem about as tall as the leaves, although the stem can extend 2 to 3 feet above the plant.

Compare to Narrow Leaf Yucca which is generally taller, has narrower leaves and a flowering stem above the leaves.

The fleshy, edible fruits can be 10" long and look like fat, green bananas.

Flora of North America reference.