Dasylirion Desert Spoon

Dasylirion Desert Spoon

Common Name: Desert Spoon, Sotol
Scientific Name: Dasylirion wheeleri

Description:

• Type: Evergreen, drought-tolerant shrub
• Height: Grows 3-5 feet tall, with a spread of 4-6 feet; flower stalks can reach up to 10-15 feet tall
• Leaves: Narrow, blue-gray, or green leaves radiate in a dense rosette; leaves are serrated with spiny edges and curve gracefully, resembling a spoon at the base
• Flowers: Produces tall, branched flower spikes with small creamy-white flowers, typically in late spring to early summer
• Growth Speed: Slow-growing but long-lived

Growing Conditions:

• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun but tolerates partial shade in hotter climates
• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy, or rocky soils; tolerates poor soil conditions
• Watering: Extremely drought-tolerant; requires minimal watering once established
• Temperature: Hardy in USDA zones 6-11; tolerates temperatures down to -10°F (-23°C)
• Humidity: Performs best in arid or semi-arid climates; sensitive to overly wet or humid conditions
• Hardiness: Adapts to extreme heat, drought, and frost

Special Features:

• Iconic plant for desert landscapes due to its symmetrical rosette and striking flower stalk
• Low-maintenance and exceptionally resilient, ideal for xeriscaping
• Adds texture and structure to both residential and commercial landscapes