Texas sotol
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.
Texas sotol
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.
Plant details
Botanic Name
Dasylirion texanum
Pronunciation
DAZ-ee-leer-ee-on tex-AN-um
Mature Height
2-4 feet
Mature Spread
2-4 feet
Water usage
One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.
Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.
Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.
Flower Color
yellow
Bloom time
early summer
Colorado Native
No
Natural Habitat
native to Texas and Mexico
Light Requirements
sun
Cold Hardiness
USDA zones 5-8
Performance
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.
Maintenance
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.