Devil's Shoestring
Nolina lindheimeriana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Nolina lindheimeriana (Devil's Shoestring) is a native Texas succulent that blooms white flowers from March to May. This drought-tolerant plant attracts butterflies and bees in full sun conditions.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 48"–60" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Devil's Shoestring forms a low, spreading clump of thin, grass-like succulent leaves that create an architectural ground cover. This drought-tolerant native produces tall spikes of white flowers in spring that add vertical interest to the landscape.
Growing Devil's Shoestring
Grow Devil's Shoestring in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 48 to 60 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Devil's Shoestring takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone.
- Spread too large for structured beds
Wildlife value
Spring blooms attract butterflies and bees during peak pollinator activity season. The dense foliage provides shelter for small wildlife and beneficial insects.
Common questions
- When does Nolina lindheimeriana bloom?
- Devil's Shoestring produces white flower clusters from March through May in its native Texas habitat.
- What pollinators visit Devil's Shoestring?
- Nolina lindheimeriana attracts butterflies and bees to its spring flower displays, providing nectar for these important pollinators.
- Where is Nolina lindheimeriana native?
- Devil's Shoestring is native to Texas, where it grows naturally in dry, rocky soils and requires minimal water once established.
- Is Devil's Shoestring HOA-friendly?
- Devil's Shoestring takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Devil's Shoestring? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz