Banana yucca is a large, bush-like plant with long, thick, sturdy leaves, 11 to 40 inches long and blue-green in color. The leaves often have little curly cue like strands peeling from them. The flower stalk protrudes from the center of the plant in spring or early summer, April to July. The flowers bloom along the central stalk and tilt downward until they open. Once open, the flowers reveal six petals, six stamens, and one pistil, all creamy white in color. Banana yucca gets its name from the banana shaped fruits that appear after the flowers. The fruits are fleshy, cylindrical and brownish-green colored with rough black seeds inside. Sources: Wikipedia and USFS

Banana yucca is New Mexico's state flower. Banana yucca 's tough fibers are used in many products, including brushes, sandals, mats, fish nets, brooms, and soaps. Native American tribes used their fruit and seeds as a food source, as well as for ceremonial purposes, and as a remedy for vomiting and heartburn.