The single inflorescence grows extremely fast, and reaches 0.9–3 metres (3–10 ft) tall, bearing hundreds of elliptical (bell-shaped) white to purplish flowers 3 cm (1+1⁄4 in) in diameter on a densely branched panicle up to 70 cm (28 in) broad, covering the upper half of the inflorescence.

According to Guinness the pedicel of the H. whipplei inflorescence can grow up to ten inches (25 cm) a day towards an eventual height of 11ft 11in (3.65 meters)[6] The plant takes several (usually 5+) years to reach maturity and flower, doing so in April–May,[5] at which point it usually dies.

[7] Hesperoyucca was described as a genus by George Engelmann as long ago as 1892,[8] but it has taken recent DNA analysis to confirm that they are genetically distinct from Yucca.

The female yucca moth collects up to a dozen sacks of pollen grains called pollinia and forms them into a massive ball.

Standing with its head near the stigma, the moth inserts its ovipositor into the ovary wall and lays a single egg.

[16][5] Hesperoyucca whipplei is used in xeriscaping in Southern California, but reportedly is difficult to grow outside of its native range (although it is widely available from specialist nurseries in the United Kingdom).

[18] Yucca species such as Y. whipplei have been documented to have been used as a fiber and food source by Native Americans in the Southwest cultural region, prior to European settlement.

[20] Yucca whipplei grows on the rocky slopes and washes of the chaparral area of the transverse mountains of Southern California up to approximately 1,200 m (4,000 ft) above mean sea level.

[25] The hearts would then be roasted in stone lined pits (earth oven) over several hours in a manner similar to that of agave species.

The whole green leaves are then tightly woven to shape the bed of the sandal, and secured to the foot with cordage ties.