Dasylirion wheeleri

(Common Sotol)

For something a little different to spice up a garden, look no further than Dasylirion wheeleri. Its symmetrical, round structure and distinct slim, flat strapped leaves are lined with serrated margins and tipped with light brown tassels, making this plant something to talk about. This evergreen succulent-shrub is scattered throughout the Chihuahua Desert and is similar to the Texas Sotol. The turquoise, blue-green-gray foliage of the Common Sotol is one of the most notable differences. Its softer, more colorful rosette adds a peaceful southwestern flair to the landscape. Dasylirion wheeleri is the only species used to make the spirit Sotol which is the state drink of Chihuahua, Mexico. In Mexico, Sotol distilleries have a long tradition of harvesting the plant from the wild. While new, and virtually unknown in the United States, the spirit is described as smooth, smoky and similar to tequila. Cheers!