Close-up of a specimen of the blossoms of chaparral yucca (Yucca whipplei - Spanish Dagger), [s.d.]

Photograph of a close-up of a specimen of the blossoms of chaparral yucca (Yucca whipplei - Spanish Dagger), [s.d.]. A sprig of the plant is shown at center, sawed-off at the top and bottom. The shoots that extend from it are adorned with cuplike lightly-colored blossoms and buds. This image compares to CHS-5385 which shows the same sprig from a different angle.; "The genus Yucca is one of the most remarkable groups of flowering plants native to the New World. It includes about 40 species, most of which occur in the southwestern United States and Mexico. Although they are often associated with arid desert regions, some species are native to the southeastern United States and the Caribbean islands. What truly sets this genus apart from other flowering plants is their unique method of pollination: A specific moth that is genetically programmed for stuffing a little ball of pollen into the cup-shaped stigma of each flower. Like fig wasps and acacia ants, the relationship is mutually beneficial to both partners, and is vital for the survival of both plant and insect. In fact, yuccas cultivated in the Old World, where yucca moths are absent, will not produce seeds unless they are hand pollinated." -- unknown author.