Texas sotol

Dasylirion texanum

DAZ-ee-leer-ee-on tex-AN-um
2-4 feet
2-4 feet
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very low

yellow

early summer

2-4 feet

2-4 feet

No

native to Texas and Mexico

sun

USDA zones 5-8

Texas sotol is an evergreen shrub-like plant native to Texas and Mexico. It has long, thin green leaves that measure about 0.5 inch wide and 2-3 feet long. Each leaf has short yellow spines along its edges and ends in a curly fiber-like tip.

It is a cold-hardy plant for very hot, dry locations.  It works well as an accent plant or a specimen in a pot. Plant it away from walkways because of its spines. 

Texas sotol will periodically send up a tall stalk with multiple light yellow flowers. The flower spike can reach up to 15 tall, rising far above the mound of leaves. This plant has traditionally been used for building structures, making mats and baskets, and as a food source. 

very low

yellow

early summer

2-4 feet

2-4 feet

No

native to Texas and Mexico

sun

USDA zones 5-8

Texas sotol has proven to be cold-hardy at the Demonstration Garden. Its green leaves add color during the winter months and its overall shape is quite beautiful. Make sure you plant it in a spot with enough space so its form can be highlighted. 

Cut off the spent flower stalk after blooming, if desired. Periodically cut off the lower leaves once they turn yellow or brown. New leaves arise from the center of the plant.