Texas Sotol

Texas sotol (*Dasylirion texanum*) is an evergreen, green-leaved rosette that adds a bold accent to sunny, dry gardens. This slow-growing Texas native is best placed where its toothed leaves have room to spread and visitors will not brush against them. ## Site and care Give the plant full sun and fast-draining soil; rocky, sandy, or limestone ground suits it well. Water occasionally while it establishes, then reduce watering substantially, and keep the crown from staying wet through winter. Its established drought tolerance and ability to handle local cold make it a useful structural plant in Central Texas landscapes. The City of Austin lists a typical height and spread of three to four feet, while a Hill Country nursery describes green sotol as about three to four feet tall and four to six feet wide, so leave generous spacing around the mature rosette. [Austin’s Texas sotol guide](https://www.austintexas.gov/watershed-protection/plant-guide/sotol-texas) · [RA Texas Nursery’s sotol guide](https://www.ranursery.com/sotols) ## Garden role The lasting green foliage supplies year-round structure among lower grasses, stones, and other dry-garden plants. The sharp leaf edges can be hazardous near narrow paths, seating, and play areas, so choose an open position that does not invite contact. ## Maintenance A well-sited plant needs little shaping. Remove damaged leaves carefully if needed, using gloves and keeping clear of the sharp leaf tips.