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Dasylirion wheeleri

Grey Desert Spoon, Sotol

Plant photo of: Dasylirion wheeleri
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Information by: Jerry Sortomme Editor        Photographer: Mountain States Nursery

 

Description

Grey desert spoon requires little maintenance and is popular in desert-themed gardens. Plants tolerate drought, reflected heat and poor soils. It slowly develops a short, thick trunk while reaching 6' tall and wide. Leaves look like swords, are 3' long, and gray-green with thorns on the margins. During late spring to summer, an erect stem of white creamy flowers emerge from the center, up to 10' high. This long-lived plant needs well draining soil. Do not plant near walkways.

 

Plant Type

Shrub, Perennial

Height Range

6-12'

Flower Color

White

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Grey Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Very Low

Growth Rate

Slow

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Thorns/Spines

Design Styles

Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish

Accenting Features

Silhouette, Specimen, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Foundation, Roadside, With Rocks

Special Uses

Container, Mass Planting

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.