Nolina parviflora is the most widespread and variable nolina in Mexico — a complex of forms distributed across central and southern Mexico along the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. It is the species into which Nolina longifolia is sometimes sunk as a synonym (POWO accepts both as separate taxa; other authorities merge them). The taxonomic confusion surrounding the parviflora/longifolia complex has caused decades of horticultural confusion, with plants sold under one name actually belonging to the other.
Taxonomy: parviflora/longifolia problem
This is one of the most troublesome nomenclatural tangles in the genus. Nolina parviflora (Kunth) Hemsl. was described from central Mexico and applies to a variable, widespread species complex. Nolina longifolia (Karw. ex Schult. & Schult.f.) Hemsl. was described from Oaxaca and Puebla and applies to the distinctive, corky-barked arborescent form that is popular in gardens. Whether these represent one variable species or two distinct taxa is debated. Llifle treats Nolina longifolia as an accepted synonym of Nolina parviflora. POWO currently accepts both.
For gardeners, the practical distinction is: if you are buying a plant with the thick, corky, deeply fissured trunk and weeping foliage, you want the form sold as Nolina longifolia regardless of its taxonomic status. If you are buying seed labelled Nolina parviflora, the resulting plant may or may not resemble the garden-worthy longifolia form.
Distribution and natural habitat
Central and southern Mexico, along the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt. Multiple states. The ecological range is broad: dry forests, open woodlands, rocky slopes.
References
POWO (2026). Nolina parviflora. Plants of the World Online, Kew.
Ruiz-Sánchez, E. & Specht, C.D. — biogeography and speciation of Nolina parviflora (2013, 2014).