Yuca (cassava) is a fast-growing tropical shrub grown for its starchy roots, a staple in Caribbean and Latin American cooking. (Manihot esculenta)
Shop this plant: Yuca / Cassava Plant (Manihot esculenta) – 2-3 ft, 3 Gal
Quick Care Summary
- Sun: Full sun.
- Soil: Loose, well-drained sandy soil is ideal.
- Watering: Water weekly while establishing; once established yuca is very drought tolerant.
Sun
Full sun.
Soil
Loose, well-drained sandy soil is ideal. Avoid heavy or waterlogged soil, which rots the roots.
Watering
Water weekly while establishing; once established yuca is very drought tolerant.
Fertilizer Schedule for South Florida
Mix compost into the planting area and feed a low-nitrogen fertilizer (such as 4-6-8) once or twice during the season. Too much nitrogen grows leaves instead of roots.
Pruning
Little pruning needed; cut back to keep the plant compact. Save woody stem pieces to replant.
Cold Protection
Frost kills the top growth; roots may resprout. Harvest before a hard freeze in colder areas.
Container vs. In-Ground
Can be grown in a large 15-25 gallon container with loose mix, though roots will be smaller.
Spacing
Plant 3 ft apart in rows 3-4 ft apart.
Flowering and Fruiting Timeline
Plant in spring; roots are ready 8-12 months later, and can stay in the ground up to 18 months.
Harvest
Dig carefully around the base and pull up the roots. Use within a few days; roots spoil quickly.
Common Pests and Diseases
Start with organic, low-impact fixes: good airflow, clean-up of fallen fruit and leaves, and soaps or oils before anything stronger. Always follow label directions.
Spider mites
How to identify: Fine stippling and bronzing on leaves, tiny webbing in dry weather.
Organic-first treatment: Hose leaf undersides regularly; spray insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Mealybugs
How to identify: White cottony masses on leaves and stems.
Organic-first treatment: Spray insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Root rot
How to identify: Wilting despite moist soil, yellowing leaves, dark mushy roots.
Organic-first treatment: Prevention is the cure: plant high in fast-draining soil, never let water stand, and cut back watering in cool months.
Cassava hornworm
How to identify: Large caterpillars stripping leaves.
Organic-first treatment: Hand-pick or spray Bt.
FAQ
Is raw yuca safe to eat? No. Yuca must be peeled and fully cooked to remove natural compounds that are toxic raw.
Can I replant from stems? Yes, plant 8-12 inch woody stem cuttings.
Related Reading
- Why Too Much Fertilizer Can Hurt Your Fruit Tree More Than None
- Cold-Hardy Fruit Trees for Florida Freezes (and How to Protect Tender Ones)
- Which Fruit Trees Are the Lowest Maintenance in South Florida?
Ready to grow your own? Get the Yuca / Cassava here.
