Dasylirion

/ˌdæsɪˈlɪriən/ noun

Definition

A genus of plants in the agave family with thick, spiky leaves that grows in Mexico and the southwestern United States.

Etymology

From Greek 'dasys' (hairy) + 'lirion' (lily). The name describes the plant's hairy or bristly appearance combined with its lily-like characteristics.

Kelly Says

Dasylirion plants were used by Native Americans to make a nutritious food called sotol—the same name is now used for a spirit similar to tequila!

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