Accession Count: 126
Common Name:
giant hesperaloe, Coahuilan hesperaloe
Family Name:
Asparagaceae
Botanical Name:
Hesperaloe funifera
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
H. funifera has six foot long, two to one-eighth of an inch long leaves. These leaves are straight, with marginal threads, and can be very coarse. It stays green all year long, making it a winter evergreen. The beautiful white flowers are nocturnal and are pollinated by bats.
Compound:
Hes fun
Geographic Origin:
Northeastern Mexico
Ecozone Origin:
Nearctic
Biome Origin:
MX
Natural History:
The H. funifera origin is Northeastern Mexico and it's native distribution has been to San Luis Potosi, north through Nuevo Leon and Coahuila to Val Verde county in south Texas (2).
Cultivation Notes:
H. funifera is an excellent xeriscaping plant, specifically in transition or arid landscapes. It has very low water needs and can survive off infrequent desert rains. It would be wise to keep the pointed leaves away from walks and patios. Properly drained soil and full sun are perfect for the optimum growth of this plant. The giant hesperaloe bloom stalks can reach up to 12 feet long. This species is very hardy and can maintain that hardiness at of at least 15 ℉.
Ethnobotany:
The giant hesperaloe would be perfect as a container plant, around a pool or other wet area, and even outstanding in an environment by itself. This species should be planted as an accent, in groups, against a plain wall, or in front of finely textured foliage.
Height:
0 - 5 feet
Width:
0 - 5 feet
Growth Rate:
Moderate Growing
Grow Season:
Fall
Flower Season:
Spring
Color:
White
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Low water Use
Citations:
- Mielke, Judy. Native Plants for Southwestern Landscapes. University of Texas Press, 1993.
- wildflower.org. Retrieved Oct. 14, 2018.
