Desert Spoon

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Dasylirion wheeleri Common Sotol, Sotol, Desert Spoon, Desert Candle Desert Spoon Yucca is a charming evergreen plant that adds a touch of character to any garden. With its strikin g long, gray, strap-shaped leaves that are serrated along the edges, it boasts a stout, short trunk that can grow between 4 to 6 feet tall, spreading out just as much. The lovely blue-gray leaves have a unique spoon-shaped base, which is part of what gives this plant its delightful name. Interestingly, even as the leaves fall off, they leave behind a rugged texture on the trunk, making it quite the conversation piece. Flowering happens just once every few years, showcasing tiny pale brownish green or greenish flowers—this plant is dioecious, meaning it has male and female flowers on separate plants. These flowers emerge on robust spikes that can reach 10 to 15 feet tall, rising tall from the center of the leaf rosette in early summer. Once they’ve bloomed, the rosette branches at the base of the inflorescence to keep the plant growing strong. This beauty loves the full sun and is quite drought tolerant, making it a hardy companion that can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees F. Although blooms are infrequent, they certainly catch the eye of bees, butterflies, and other lovely garden visitors! However, be mindful that the sharp leaf edges can snag clothing and skin, so it’s best to steer clear of walkways. When you’re ready to trim or remove older leaves, don’t forget to wear sturdy leather gloves for protection. This fascinating plant naturally thrives on rocky hillsides and in grasslands at elevations between 3,000 to 6,000 feet across southeastern Arizona, southwestern New Mexico, west Texas, and south into Sonora, Mexico. Its name comes from the Greek words 'dasys', meaning "dense" or "shaggy," and 'lirion' meaning "lily," likely referring to its long, rough leaves, adding to its unique charm. BONAP MAPHeight: 3'-5'Spread: 4'-5'Bloom: Every few years in springLight: Full SunWater: LowZone: 8-11Origin: Southwestern United States, Northern Mexico Show more