Family Asparagaceae
Originating from N Mexico
This is an exceptionally distinctive, single trunked species with a magnificent, almost spherical head of very narrow, flexible, powder blue leaves. The dead leaves remain in the stem for several years and turn a very pleasing straw colour, like an Hawaiian grass skirt. Unfortunately the leaves are usually removed before export. In summer a flowering stem, up to 60cm long may rise from the head, and bear panicles of creamy white flowers.
An extremely hardy species, surviving temperatures as low as -10 degrees centigrade, possibly lower. Prefers full sun and good drainage.
Height and spread after 4 – 5 years 80cm x 50cm
Semi mature height and spread after 10 – 11 years 1.5m x 50cm
Potential height and spread after 25 years 3 – 4m x 1.5m, width is dependent on flowering and subsequent branching.