Description

Parry’s nolina is endemic to California’s dry mountain slopes in scattered locations from about Bakersfield south. It grows much like a yucca or agave, with a rosette of narrow leaves of olive green. Unlike the yucca and agave, the leaves are not formidably sharp and rigid. Highly variable, Parry’s nolina may develop one or more trunks topped with a tuft of pointed leaves. A mature plant produces a tall flower stock in late spring covered with large, pure white flowers. The plant does not die after blooming, as with the agaves. Parry’s nolina prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It is remarkably drought tolerant but is adapted to some summer water because of the occasional monsoonal rainfall in its desert home. Parry’s nolina is grass-like in appearance and can be used in dry sunny spots where a grass would not be reliable. Alternately, Parry’s nolina makes an unusual and durable container specimen.