Torrey Yucca (Yucca torreyi) - The Torrey yucca is the most common yucca in Big Bend. Sometimes affectionately known as "old shag" because of its appearance, it has tough fibers curling along the leaf edges and a cloak of old leaves that protects the trunk. Many people associate the desert with the cactus family, but the Chihuahuan Desert tends to be dominated instead by woody plants such as yuccas and lechuguillas. While different in physical characteristics, yuccas and cacti do share some of the same adaptations to survive in desert environments, such as spiny protection and the ability to store moisture.