Dasylirion wheeleri

Desert Spoon

OVERVIEW:

Native to Arizona, New Mexico, Mexico and Texas, the genus Dasylirion comes from the Greek: “dasys” meaning “dense” or “rough” and “lirion” meaning “lily” in reference to the Dasylirion Wheeleris’ rough long leaves. Each leaf can be about 3’ long, displaying a beautiful blue-gray color with wickedly sharp teeth along the margin. These leaves grow on a trunk that can be anywhere from 4-6’ tall and wide once mature size is met. Because of the D. Wheeleris unique look and hardiness to the elements, they make a great textured piece in the landscape.

CLASSIFICATION:

Botanical Name: Dasylirion Wheeleri

Common Name: Desert Spoon

Family: Nolinaceae

Suggested Uses: south-facing specimen, cactus garden, parking lots

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 4-6’

Width: 3’

Flower: grows a 10- 15’ stalk that produces red or pink buds that bloom white

Dioecious- produces either all male or all female flowers

Bloom Period: blooms very infrequently in summer

Fruit: NA

ENVIRONMENT:

USDA Zone: 7-10

Hardiness: hardy to 0° F

Sun: full sun

Water: water once a week, reduce in winter

Soil: well draining rocky, sandy soil