50% OFF! Hot items selling fast—Grab them before they're gone!
Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Dasylirion serratifolium, commonly known as the Serrated Desert Spoon or Toothed Sotol, is a striking, drought-tolerant architectural plant native to the arid regions of Mexico. This slow-growing succulent shrub forms a symmetrical rosette of narrow, arching, blue-green leaves edged with fine, sharp serrations hence the name serratifolium. The long, leathery foliage gives it a spiky, fountain-like appearance, making it a bold centrepiece for dry gardens or xeriscapes.
Each leaf is rigid, highly textured, and can develop a graceful twist, enhancing its sculptural, desert aesthetic. Over time, mature plants can produce a tall, dramatic flower spike (up to 24 metres) from the centre of the rosette, bearing small cream or yellowish blooms though this can take many years.
Perfect for containers, gravel gardens, conservatories, or sunny indoor atriums, Dasylirion serratifolium is both tough and visually arresting. It’s also highly wind- and sun-tolerant, making it suitable for exposed spots.
Requires full sun to thrive at least 6 hours daily.
Outdoors: perfect for south-facing gardens, gravel beds, or pots on sunny patios.
Indoors: place in the brightest possible location, such as a south-facing window or conservatory.
Insufficient light will result in stunted growth and floppy foliage.
Very drought-tolerant once established.
Water sparingly allow the soil to fully dry out between waterings.
During summer: water every 23 weeks (more frequently if in pots or heatwaves).
Winter: water very infrequently as little as once every 46 weeks indoors.
Always ensure excellent drainage to avoid rot.
Naturally adapted to dry air no misting required.
Performs well in arid environments and centrally heated homes.
Hardy to around -6C if kept dry, making it suitable for mild UK gardens or with protection in winter.
Ideal temperature range: 1030C.
In colder areas, grow in containers and move to a frost-free spot during winter.
Avoid excess moisture in cold weather damp combined with freezing conditions is the biggest risk.
Requires very well-draining soil.
Ideal mix: cactus compost, or a blend of loam, horticultural grit, and sand.
For outdoor planting, amend heavy soils with coarse sand and grit to prevent winter rot.
Not heavy feeders.
Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser once in spring, or feed with cactus fertiliser every 68 weeks during the growing season.
Do not fertilise in winter.
Low maintenance.
Remove any dead or damaged lower leaves with sharp, thick gloves leaf edges are serrated.
Use caution when pruning near the crown; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Repot every 35 years or when rootbound.
Use a large, heavy pot to support the weight of the foliage and avoid tipping.
Terracotta pots are ideal for evaporation and root health.
Very pest-resistant. Occasionally susceptible to:
Mealybugs or scale insects in dry indoor conditions.
Root rot is the primary issue always prioritise drainage and avoid overwatering.
Not known to be toxic to pets or humans.
However, leaf edges are sharply serrated, so handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent scratches.
Great for forgetful waterers less is more.
Looks stunning in modern, minimalist pots or planted in gravel beds.
Can be left outdoors in mild UK coastal climates, but needs sharp drainage and frost protection elsewhere.
