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Beaucarnea recurvata - Ponytail Plant - Elephant's Foot Plant Care- Bottle Palm

Ponytail Palm or Elephants foot plant - indoor.

Also known as Nolina recurvata -The Ponytail Plant or Palm , or Elephant Foot Tree. It is not a true palm as is often thought but a tender evergreen shrub that is at home in the deserts and scrub land of the Southern America.

The common name of Bottle Palm aptly describes the shape of the stem, though with age it will out grow this descriptive common name, whereas the Ponytail Palm is wonderfully descriptive of the neat foliage. It is a perfect Christmas Gift and will also be appreciated as an office gift!

The Plant: Originating from Mexico, this unusual plant, looking like a small tree, is accustomed to desert conditions, using its swollen stem base as a water storage organ, hence the name Elephant foot tree - plant. The leaves form a bushy lush-green growth resembling scruffy ponytails. Small yellow flowers may be produced on arching spikes in spring.

Its needs: Ponytail plant needs strong light, including direct sun for part of the day. Potting mix should include coarse sand/grit, or charcoal, to provide very good drainage.



Beaucarnea Nolina Care: Apply fertilizer monthly to this Ponytail Palm. Water well every two weeks, taking care not to over-water as this will cause the stem and roots to rot. This plant can withstand drought but not cold, so move it away from draughts and windows in winter. Do not allow to become water-logged.

It is draught resistant in natural habitat, and as an indoor plant this should be taken into consideration when tempted to water!

Good for: Beaucarnea makes a good specimen feature plant, ideal standing alone, preferably on the floor - or even when young, as a desk plant. Beautiful, different!

A feature that gives it one of its names - The Elephant Foot Plant - will determine the size of pot needed!

Problems with Elephant Foot Plant

Other than over-watering, which can be fatal, there are two main pests that take a liking to the plant. Red Spider mite - probably because the plant has to be grown in dry conditions - loved by red spider; and scale insects which will form a nice little line under the attractive streams of foliage.

Propagation of Beaucarnea is quite simple with older plants. The tend to have offshoots at the base, which can be detached and grown as new plants.

Growing Beaucarnea Recurvata, commonly known as the Ponytail Plant, from seed

is a rewarding experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you through the process. Ideal Growing Conditions for Ponytail Plant
  • Light: Ponytail plants thrive in bright light. They can tolerate direct sunlight but prefer indirect sunlight.
  • Soil: They need well-draining soil. A cactus or succulent mix is a great option.
  • Water: They require water only when the top inch of soil dries out. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • Temperature: They prefer warmer temperatures between 60°F to 85°F (15°C - 29°C) and do not tolerate frost.
  • Humidity: Ponytail Plants are adaptable and can handle both low and high humidity levels.
  • pH: The soil pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Step-by-Step Guide to Grow Ponytail Plant from Seed
  • Preparation: Start by filling a small pot with a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Water the soil until it is evenly moist but not soaked.
  • Planting the Seeds: Place the Ponytail Plant seeds on top of the soil, spacing them out as much as possible. Cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil.
  • Germination: Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or wrap to create a mini greenhouse effect. It helps retain moisture and warmth, which aids in germination.
  • Location: Place the pot in a warm, bright location but away from direct sunlight.
  • Care During Germination: Check the pot daily to ensure the soil remains damp. You may need to mist it lightly if it appears to be drying out.
  • Transplanting: Once the seedlings have sprouted and grown a few inches tall, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots.
  • Ongoing Care: Continue to provide bright, indirect light and water when the top inch of soil dries out.
Propagation of Ponytail Plant

Ponytail Plants can also be propagated through offsets. When the plant matures, it often produces smaller "pups" at the base. These can be removed carefully and planted in their own pots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid
  • Overwatering: Ponytail Plants have a bulbous base that stores water, making them prone to root rot if overwatered.
  • Too Much Direct Sunlight: While they like light, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
  • Incorrect Soil: Using a heavy, water-retentive soil can lead to waterlogging and root rot. Always opt for a well-draining mix.
Problems That Might Arise
  • Brown Leaf Tips: This can be a sign of underwatering, over-fertilizing, or low humidity.
  • Soft, Mushy Base: This is likely due to overwatering and could indicate root rot. If caught early, you can repot the plant in fresh, dry soil and reduce watering.

Growing Ponytail Plants from seed requires patience, but the unique beauty of these plants makes it worth the effort!


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