Mojave Yucca versus Banana Yucca
Blooming Mojave Yuccas (Yucca schidigera) are in the top picture.
Blooming Banana Yuccas (Yucca baccata) are on the bottom.
Both photos where taken along the start of Pine Creek trail (Mescalito is in the background).
Red Rocks, Nevada. April 2008.
Both of these species are closely related. The main diferrence is the color of their leaves. Banana Yucca's leaves are bluish green and Mojave Yucca's leaves are green. Also, Banana Yuccas do not have trunks and grow directly on the ground.