Beaucarnea recurvata is part of the Asparagaceae family and its native range Mexico (Specifically Oaxaca, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas & Veracruz). It is a caudex tree which grows primarily in the desert or dry shrubland biome.
This plant is sometimes called ‘Ponytail Palm’ or ‘Bottle Palm’ but it is not a palm, another common name ‘Elephant’s Foot Tree’ due to the flared trunk shape (a globose caudex). As Beaucarnea recurvata matures, the caudex will increase in size and likely develop fissures and cracks. The caudex serves as a water store, allowing the plant to survive extended droughts. It begins with a single stem but will branch with age and after flowering. Leaves are narrow, flat and recurved, they are tough, coriaceous and finely serrated.
Genus name honours Jean-Baptiste Beaucarne who first collected the flowers of this plant. The specific epithet means curved backwards.
Light: Bright light to bright indirect light, the plant ought to be able to see the sun from where it is positioned in the home.
Water: Allow the potting mix to completely dry out between watering. You may not need to water during winter, remember, these plants are susceptible to root rot.
Potting mix: These plants only require repotting every few years as they are slow growing; use a cactus and succulent mix.
Fertilising: Beaucarnea aren’t heavy feeders; you can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount and feed once a month.
Temperature: 18-32˚C. Lower temperatures can cause a decline in Beaucarnea.
Humidity: Ambient home humidity is adequate (40-60%).