Texas sotol

Dasylirion texanum

Physical Characteristics

Dasylirion texanum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in flower from June to July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Southern N. America - Texas.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Edible Uses: Drink The sugary pulp in the centre of the bud can be eaten[46]. Dasylirion was once a major food source in the desert southwest of N. America. The bulbs were roasted in rock-lined pits and pounded into cakes[270]. A potent alcoholic beverage, known as sotol, is distilled from the baked and fermented bulbs[270].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known