A dense, symmetrical burst of long, very narrow leaves that slowly rises on a short trunk with age. Unlike desert spoon, its leaves have smooth edges, so it brings strong form and fine texture without teeth or spines.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide. It appreciates some summer water in the low desert and needs little in winter. Fast-draining soil is essential; it is prone to root rot in heavy or wet soil.
Pruning
Remove only old, dead leaves at the base, or leave them for a natural “grass skirt.” Never shear it into a ball or cone.
Heat
Leaf tips often brown in Phoenix summers. This is cosmetic and normal for the plant here.
How our designers use it
Focal point
Its perfect, round silhouette makes a strong specimen in a courtyard, entry or gravel garden.
Texture against hard lines
The fine leaves soften smooth walls, boulders and modern paving.
Containers
It holds its shape well in a large pot, as long as drainage is good.
Good to know
Around the pool
No spines and little litter, so it sits comfortably near pools and seating. The leaves reach out a few feet, so give it room from walkways and the pool edge.
Give it space
A common mistake is planting it in a tight spot and then trimming it. Plan for the full width from the start.
