Dasylirion wheeleri (Desert Spoon)

Dasylirion wheeleri (Desert Spoon) is a very ornamental evergreen succulent boasting a perfectly symmetrical rosette packed with hundreds of long, narrow, silvery blue-green leaves tipped with white fibers. The leaves can reach 5 ft. in length (150 cm) and are adorned with golden spines along their margins. The rosette sits on a stout short trunk. In summer, it is topped with a dramatic flowering stalk, up to 15 ft. (450 cm), bearing thousands of tiny flowers. Bees and hummingbirds relish the flowers. Dasylirion wheeleri is dioecious (separate male and female plants). Male flowers are more white colored and female flowers are tinged purple-pink. The flowers are followed by small oval capsules containing a single seed. Slow-growing, carefree, and very drought tolerant, Desert Spoon makes a great specimen plant for xeriscape gardens and blends well in Mediterranean or arid gardens. Position where the sun backlights the striking form and yellow spines.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society
• Adds architectural interest to the garden and slowly grows up to 3-5 ft. tall (90-150 cm) and 4-5 ft. wide (120-150 cm).
• Easily grown in well-drained soils in full sun. Once planted in the ground, this plant does not need additional water, though the odd deep watering during summer would encourage more rapid growth. Thrive best in full sun, but tolerates some shade and humidity. Drought tolerant.
• Great for beds and borders, city gardens, coastal gardens, informal gardens, or Mediterranean gardens. Placement in the garden should be carefully considered so as not to catch unwary passers-by with thorns.
• Virtually pest and disease free, but watch out for scale insects. Deer and rabbit resistant
• Propagate from seeds.
• Native to Mexico (Chihuahua and Sonora), southwestern United States (Texas to Arizona)