Scientific Name
Dasylirion texanum Scheele
Synonym(s)
Dasylirion texanum var. aberrans
Common Name(s)
Texas Sotol, Sotol
Scientific Classification
Family: Asparagaceae
Subfamily: Nolinoideae
Genus: Dasylirion
Etymology
The specific epithet "texanum" (pronounced "tek-SAY-num") means "of or pertaining to Texas" and refers to Texas, a state in the southern United States, where this species was first discovered.
Origin
The native range of Dasylirion texanum is from central and southwestern Texas in the United States to the state of Coahuila in northeastern Mexico, including the Chihuahuan Desert. It grows in arid, rocky limestone habitats.
Description
Dasylirion texanum is a highly ornamental plant with narrow, usually shiny, bright green leaves spreading from a central trunk that is sometimes partially buried underground. The leaves have small, sharp teeth along the margins, and can measure up to 4.3 feet (1.3 cm) long and 0.8 inches (2 cm) wide.
The spectacular erect flower stalks, which can reach up to 13.1 feet (4 m) in height, appear in spring and summer, bearing whitish or greenish flowers.
How to Grow and Care for Dasylirion texanum
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 7a to 11b: from 0°F (-17.8°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Dasylirions are slow-growing, carefree, durable, drought-tolerant plants. However, they grow faster when well watered (don't water the crown, though it can rot easily). In the garden, they should be planted in a sunny, well-drained area, with supplemental summer water in dry climates.
These make great specimen plants for xeriscape gardens and blend well in either tropical or arid gardens. Small plants are relatively inexpensive, but larger ones are a fortune. These make excellent potted specimens, and their symmetrical form provides a striking focal point.
They thrive best in full sun but can be grown with some shade and humidity. Plant in very fast-draining soil and provide little or no water in winter. Treat like a succulent. Best where winter temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C) but can take some periods of frost. Plants in containers can be moved inside during longer cold spells.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Dasylirion.
Links
- Back to genus Dasylirion
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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