Our Lord'S-Candle

Our Lord'S-Candle

Hesperoyucca whipplei

Family: Asparagaceae

Easy

Our Lord'S-Candle (Hesperoyucca whipplei) is a upright houseplant from the Asparagaceae family. Easy to care for and forgiving.

IndoorToxic to pets Air Purifying
Light
Low light
Water
Every 9 days
Size
48" tall
Difficulty
1/5

Complete Care Guide

Light Requirements

Tolerates north-facing windows, shaded corners, and rooms with minimal natural light. Can survive under fluorescent office lighting.

Watering

Very drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of death for this plant.

Typical schedule: every 9 days (adjust for season and environment).

Humidity

Tolerates dry air without issue. No special humidity measures needed — works great in air-conditioned or heated rooms.

Temperature

Keep between 5585°F (1329°C). Avoid cold drafts, heating vents, and sudden temperature changes.

Size & Growth

Mature size: approximately 48 inches tall × 33 inches wide. Growth rate is fast. Habit: upright.

Difficulty Level: 1/5

One of the easiest plants you can grow. Tolerates neglect, irregular watering, and imperfect conditions. Perfect for complete beginners and forgetful plant parents.

Quick Tips

  • Water approximately every 10 days
  • Prefers low light conditions
  • Humidity preference: low
  • Keep between 55-85°F

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves

Cause: Overwatering or sitting in waterlogged soil

Fix: Let soil dry completely before watering. Ensure pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering frequency.

Scorched or bleached leaves

Cause: Too much direct sunlight burning the foliage

Fix: Move away from direct sun. This plant prefers filtered or indirect light.

Drooping or wilting

Cause: Usually overwatering causing root rot

Fix: Check roots for rot. Reduce watering. Repot in fresh, well-draining soil if needed.

Toxic to Pets

Our Lord'S-Candle is toxic to cats and dogs. Ingestion may cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Keep this plant out of reach or consider a pet-safe alternative.

Browse pet-safe alternatives →

Where to Buy

We may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Our Lord'S-Candle safe for cats and dogs?

No — Our Lord'S-Candle is toxic to both cats and dogs. If ingested, it may cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Keep out of reach of pets or choose a pet-safe alternative.

How often should I water Our Lord'S-Candle?

Water approximately every 9 days, but always check the soil first. Very drought-tolerant. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of death for this plant. Adjust frequency based on season — less in winter, more in summer.

How much light does Our Lord'S-Candle need?

Our Lord'S-Candle prefers low light conditions. Tolerates north-facing windows, shaded corners, and rooms with minimal natural light. Can survive under fluorescent office lighting.

How big does Our Lord'S-Candle get?

Indoors, Our Lord'S-Candle typically reaches about 48 inches (122 cm) tall with a spread of around 33 inches. Growth rate is fast. Size depends on pot size, light, and care.

Is Our Lord'S-Candle good for beginners?

Yes! With a difficulty rating of 1/5, Our Lord'S-Candle is very forgiving and suitable for beginners. It tolerates imperfect conditions and bounces back from mistakes.