Yucca
Original Yucca is of the western hemisphere
Grew in the tropical Americas and Mexico
Leaves like swords reach two to ten feet.
It’s the Yucca Moth’s home for fertilization
Lay eggs in flowers of 40 different species
Scientists study to relocate Yuccas to Africa.
The white cassava root makes our tapioca.
Will supply carbohydrates, to fill tummies
A new-old nutritious food, save the starving.
Like when potatoes, squash, tomatoes
Corn, beans in 1600 were taken to Europe.
Nations began to thrive and multiple.
Again the old world could realize survival
Yuccas grown now for personal attraction
Look with wonder, help to eliminate hunger.
Margo Holzman
Marlys Greenhalgh
This acrylic painting was inspired by the spectacular yucca bloom in my garden. The work was exhibited in June as part of the “Art that Blooms” show by the Portage Center for the Arts. The floral arrangements are created to echo the art. Poems are composed in response to the art.