Dasylirion Wheeleri
Dasylirion wheeleri is native to the deserts of the Southwest, including our region. It has adapted to droughts and a wide range of temperatures, including 0 degrees and triple-digit heat.
Its large and unusual starburst shape captures immediate attention as an ornamental plant. In formal gardens, it looks elegant with its trimmed look and exposed trunk, resembling a yucca.
Fun fact- dasylirion wheeleri is used to make sotol, a distilled spirit from Mexico.
Botanical name: Dasylirion wheeleri
Other names: desert spoon, sotol, spoon yucca
Close up look at dasylirion wheeleri
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Dasylirion Wheeleri Appearance
Dasylirion wheeleri is a large desert shrub about 5-7 feet tall and wide. It mainly comprises many leaves that create an overall round shape.
Evergreen leaves grow rosette from a short and thick central trunk. They are muted silver-green in color, 3+ feet long, and only about an inch wide. Alongside the leaves, there are very sharp teeth.
Blooms from spring to summer. Very tall flower spike, often over 10 feet, with numerous cream-colored flowers.
Followed by winged seed capsules.
Dasylirion Wheeleri Landscaping Tips
Plant alongside other drought-tolerant plants of different shapes for added visual interest. The starburst shape is very attention-grabbing, especially once the plant is large.
Trim and expose the trunk for a formal and elegant look.
Older leaves on the spoon yucca will eventually become weak and droop to the ground.
Used to make sotol, a distilled spirit from Mexico.
Food source for desert animals such as bighorn sheep.
Very drought tolerant and tolerates various temperatures, including 0 degrees and triple-digit heat.
Keep away from foot traffic. The teeth along the leaves are very sharp. Handle with care.
Dasylirion wheeleri for sale at the nursery
Dasylirion Wheeleri Origin
Dasylirion wheeleri originates from the Southwest, USA and northern Mexico in areas that are mostly warm and dry.
Dasylirion Wheeleri Care
Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.
Temperature: It can withstand temperatures down to 0 degrees for a short period of time and does very well in heat.
Water: Apply occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun. Partial shade in the Palm Springs region is ok.
Dasylirion Wheeleri Problems
Pests: Dasylirion wheeleri has minimal pests. Fungal diseases are caused by root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture, browning or yellowing leaves
Signs of too little water: Drooping, shriveled leaves
Signs of too much sun: Burning, fading leaves
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloration
Dasylirion Wheeleri Propagation
To propagate desert spoon, obtain seeds after the plant has fruited.
FAQ
How much does a Dasylirion wheeleri cost?
At our nursery, a dasylirion wheeleri costs $35 for a 5-gallon container, $105 for a 15-gallon container, $250 for a 24” box, $500 for a 30” box, and $750 for a 36” box.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date pricing information. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
Is Desert Spoon a yucca?
No, the desert spoon is not a yucca but a nolina. In the past, it was classified as an agave.
Is Dasylirion Wheeleri prickly?
Yes, it has sharp teeth along the sides of its leaves. Handle with caution.
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 6 feet x 6 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | White |
| FLOWER SEASON | Summer |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Slow |
| HARDINESS | 0º F, USDA Zone 6 |
| PRUNING | As needed |