Nolina matapensis Seeds | Nolina
LATIN NAME: Nolina matapensis
COMMON NAME: Nolina, Matapa Nolina
Plant Profile
A distinctive member of its genus, Nolina (Nolina matapensis) is a perennial in the asparagus family (Nolinaceae), native to dry, rocky slopes and deserts of the northern Mexico, while it has been cultivated in dry gardens and the xeriscapes. Mature plants top out at about Two metres. When it flowers, local bees and other insects make good use of it. These traits together are what have kept the plant in gardens for so long.
Science & Biotechnology
As part of the asparagus family, Nolina matapensis contributes to research on plant classification and adaptation, while nurseries and gardeners continue to trial it for cultivation. Nolina has a real and distinguished place in research. For researchers, plants like this one offer practical material for propagation studies and selection work.
Uses & Benefits
Nolina brings genuine presence to the garden and earns its keep across the growing season. Nolina is a large, evergreen perennial of dry, rocky slopes, bearing long, narrow, grey-green leaves in large rosette and tall, branching flower stalks in the summer. Its small, creamy-white flowers feed bees and other pollinators, and its large, architectural rosette gives a fine presence in dry garden and xeriscape, while its tolerance of drought and heat makes it a valuable plant for arid landscape. To raise nolina, sow seeds on surface of pots of sandy, open soil in a sunny, warm place, keep them gently watered, and grow little plants on in the sun. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
Beargrasses and ponytail relatives are sculptural desert ornamentals; Indigenous peoples of the Southwest used their fibrous leaves for basketry.
Growing from Seed
Raising Nolina from seed is straightforward. Use a loose, well-drained seed compost, sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly, and keep everything evenly moist in bright light. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
At around two metres, it stays at a scale that suits modest gardens. It is a solid representative of the Nolina group, true to type from seed. What it needs is basic: sun, drainage, and a little patience while it establishes.
Related Reading
Gardeners who grow Nolina often pair it with these related subjects: