A variety of the coastal Spanish dagger, curve-leaf yucca shares the same native habitat of sandy dunes and beach scrub in the southeastern US, but differs in ways that matter to the gardener. The leaves are pliable and leathery rather than rigidly dangerous, curving backward with entire (not toothed) margins. The plant develops a visible stem, with leaves in an apical rosette at the tip. Because the peduncle is shorter than in the typical variety, the lowest flowers of the tall conical panicle actually touch the foliage — a small but distinctive characteristic. It blooms in summer and is extensively used in beach resort landscapes from Maryland to Florida.

Those softer, backward-curving leaves make it a good substitution for the far more treacherous Spanish bayonet (Y. aloifolia), whose stiff, armed leaves pose a genuine hazard in pedestrian areas. Well-drained, sandy soil in full sun suits it best, though other well-drained soils work and it tolerates partial shade, though blooming may be reduced. Root rot is the primary risk; good drainage prevents it. Stressed plants can attract spider mites and agave borers. Zones 7-10.