Great desert spoon (Dasylirion acrotrichum)

Great desert spoon

The great desert spoon (Dasylirion acrotrichum) originates in Mexico and Guatemala. It is a striking plant, much loved by landscapers for both arid and tropical gardens. It is slow-growing and takes 7-10 years to flower, producing cream-colored plumes on a stalk 1.8 to 4.5 m long. An alcoholic beverage is made from the sap extracted from its trunk.

Scientific classification

Species

Great desert spoon (Dasylirion acrotrichum)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

90 cm

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Great desert spoon

Distribution of Great desert spoon

Distribution Map

Great desert spoon is a plant species indigenous to the semi-arid highlands of North America. It has also gained popularity beyond its native range and is now cultivated in various arid and semi-arid regions globally, where it's appreciated for its drought tolerance and ornamental features.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Great desert spoon

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Great desert spoon is highly drought-tolerant, thriving in arid conditions with minimal water, approximately every three weeks. Primarily an outdoor plant, it is well-suited for hot climates and poor soils, efficiently storing water to withstand extended dry periods.

Fertilize: Great desert spoon thrives with succulents and cacti food, requiring biannual fertilization in spring and late summer using a quarter-strength mix. Watering before fertilizing prevents root burn, ensuring nutrient delivery that promotes growth, bloom, and foliage density for all skill levels.

Propagation: Great desert spoon is propagated by sowing seeds from healthy specimens. Use a well-draining soil mix to support germination and monitor moisture levels carefully. Transplant seedlings once they have a strong root system and are robust enough for transfer.

Repotting: Repot great desert spoon every 2 years in early spring using a container slightly larger than its root ball for stability. Post-repotting, place great desert spoon in bright, indirect light and resume watering after a week to prevent root rot, promoting healthy growth.

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