Desert Candle (Dasylirion leiophyllum)

   
 

Fig. 1. Overview of Desert Candle (Dasylirion leiophyllum) in bloom near Panther Junction, Big Bend National Park, Brewster Co., TX.. Fig. 2. Black Gap Wildlife Refuge, Brewster Co., TX. Photographs by Wynn Anderson.

 

Fig. 3. Close up of leaves with teeth. Fig. 4. Closeup of flower stalk. Photographs by Wynn Anderson.

• Common English Names: Desert Candle
• Common Spanish Names:
• Scientific Name: Dasylirion leiophyllum (daz-ee-LEER-ee-on lie-oh-FIE-lum)
• Family: Agavaceae (Agave Family) (formerly in Liliaceae, sometimes placed in the Nolinaceae)
• Geographic Range: TransPecos Texas and southern New Mexico into northern Mexico.
• Plant Form: Perennial subshrub or shrub, up to 6' x 6', flower stalk to 12'.
• Remarks: Spiny lef-edges. Full sun to light shade, drought tolerant.

Last Update: 16 Apr 2006