Beaucarnea recurvata

Ponytail palm

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Ponytail palmElephant's foot

Context

nativeRegion

Eastern Mexico (Chiapas, Veracruz, Tamaulipas, and other regions)

usdaZones

9–11 outdoors; widely grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.

companionPlants

Sansevieria, Euphorbia, Aloe

culturalUses

Grown as an attractive ornamental for its unique swollen trunk and graceful foliage; low-maintenance indoor air purifier.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but tolerates direct sun. Can adapt to lower light indoors, but grows best with ample light.

WateringAllow soil to dry between waterings. Water sparingly, as overwatering can cause root rot. More drought-tolerant than moisture-demanding.

SoilWell-draining, sandy or cactus potting mix is ideal to prevent waterlogged roots.

FertilizerFeed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season (spring-summer), no more than every 4–6 weeks.

HumidityAverage household humidity is sufficient. Tolerates dry air well.

TemperatureThrives between 18–27°C (65–80°F), avoid temperatures below 10°C (50°F).

HabitSucculent, woody-based perennial with a swollen base ('elephant foot') and long, arching leaves.

Mature Size1–2 m (3–6.5 ft) indoors; much taller outdoors in habitat.

Growth RateSlow-growing, especially indoors.

BloomingRarely flowers indoors; mature outdoor plants may produce small panicles of white flowers.

DormancyMay have a semi-dormant period in winter with reduced growth and water needs.

MethodsSeed, Offsets (suckers)

DifficultyModerate (seeds uncommon, offsets slow-growing)

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningRemove yellowed leaves or leaf tips as needed. No major pruning required.

RepottingRepot every 2–4 years or when rootbound, using a slightly larger pot.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally resistant, but watch for mealybugs, spider mites, and root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityConsidered non-toxic to pets and humans.

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