Texas Sotol

Texas Sotol is a desert perennial often mistaken for a yucca. It has long, dark
bluish-green, blade-like leaves with sharp edges. Its basal leaves grow 3’ – 4’
tall. In early summer it shoots up a 9’-15’ flower stalk, bearing a 2’-3’ spike
of yellowish flowers. Give it plenty of room to show at its best. Sotol makes
a great barrier plant and is a good substitute for Pampas grass.

Planting Sites: Sotol can grow in full or part sun. It needs well-drained sand, caliche, igneous, or limestone soils.

Planting Instructions: Dig the hole slightly larger than, but the same depth as, the nursery container. Carefully
remove plant from container and gently loosen any compacted or circling roots around the root ball. Plant at the
same depth as the soil in the container. Add 2 to 3 inches of rock mulch.

Watering Instructions: Water well after planting, using root stimulator according to directions. To promote deep
roots that will withstand drought, for the first couple of months water deeply whenever the soil has dried to a
depth of an inch or two. Highly drought-tolerant when established—do not over-water.

Comments: Good plant for rock gardens and security hedge. Combines well with rocks, curly mesquite grass, and
low-growing drought-tolerant plants such as damianita and blackfoot daisy. Lindheimer muhly is a nice contrast
when planted close by. Can be grown in large containers. Remove old flower stalks at base. Highly deer resistant.

Planting and care instructions provided by the Lindheimer Chapters of the
Native Plant Society of Texas.