This unusual plant belongs to an ancient order of gymnosperms. Individual plants are believed to live for 1000 years or more. Lying partially buried in the ground, the plant produces only two strap-like leaves that growth continuously throughout the lifetime of the individual specimen. Leaves may reach lengths of 30 feet or more, although they are usually shredded and abraded by the wind and blowing sand.
Photos from Texas A&M University's Vascular Plant Image gallery
Created October 29, 1997 by Susan Woodward, lst updated 01/05/01