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Texas sotol

Scientific Name: Dasylirion texanum

Family: Liliaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Texas Sotol (Dasylirion texanum)

The Texas Sotol is a striking desert plant with a rich history and a growing presence in both landscaping and distilled spirits. This evergreen succulent is known for its distinctive appearance and drought tolerance.

Considerations for Pets

  • Texas Sotol has long, dark bluish-green blade-like leaves with sharp, toothed edges.
  • It is described as a spiny evergreen plant.

Considerations for Children

  • Texas Sotol has long, dark bluish-green blade-like leaves with sharp, toothed edges.
  • It is described as a spiny evergreen plant.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Dasylirion texanum Scheele
  • Common Names: Texas Sotol, Green Sotol
  • Family: Asparagaceae (though the text also mentions Agavaceae and Liliaceae families)
  • Synonyms: The text refers to Sotol (Dasylirion wheeleri) as common sotol.
  • General Information: Monocot.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to central and southwestern Texas and in the Coahuila state of northeastern Mexico.
  • Also found in northern Mexico and New Mexico.
  • Typically grows in rocky and gravelly desert areas.
  • It is found in the Hill Country through West Texas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen succulent, often mistaken for a yucca.
  • Has light green leaves and can reach 3-4 feet tall and wide.
  • Leaves are described as long, dark bluish-green and blade-like, approximately 3 feet long.
  • Features sharp, toothed edges on its leaves.
  • Develops a short trunk.
  • Produces spectacular flower stalks that can grow from 9 to 15 feet tall, decorated with clusters of blooms from May through August.

Ecological Role

  • Drought-resistant and cold hardy.
  • Well-suited for landscaping in arid environments.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Historically, Texas Sotol was an important food staple for native peoples in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands.
  • The text mentions that roasted sotol was a treat enjoyed by families.

Quirky Facts

  • Sotol is a distilled spirit made from the Dasylirion wheeleri plant. Genius Gin is now producing Texas Sotol, a very different spirit.

Further Information

  • Far South Wholesale Nursery - Austin, TX
  • Monrovia plants details and information on best practices for best possible plant performance.
  • Plant Delights Nursery - award-winning mail order perennial plants on-line.