This handsome succulent should be a familiar sight to Tucsonans since it grows naturally in our region. Desert spoon is a spectacular globe-shaped accent or specimen plant for arid gardens; needing very little water and even less maintenance to remain an attractive and healthy feature of the landscape.
It grows very slowly, and instead of shedding older leaves when they die, it keeps them attached to form a dense, shaggy skirt around the base of the slow-forming trunk. Every few years, mature plants send up an impressive 10-15 foot flower stalk that towers over the silvery to blue-green foliage. Desert spoon’s long, strappy leaves are edged with sharp, curved barbs from base to tip, so this dramatic accent is best placed away from foot traffic where it can be seen but not touched.
Height: 3 – 6 feet
Width: 3 – 6 feet
Bloom color: Cream White to Tan
Flowering season: Summer
USDA minimum zone: 6
Cold hardiness: 0° F
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