Ponytail Palm
Ponytail Palm
Beaucarnea recurvata
Light Level: Low
Water Level: Low
The Ponytail Palm is a tree-like succulent with an enlarged base. This plant is not a palm; rather it is a member of the Lily family. It is closely related to the Yucca. The leaves are very long and narrow and droop down along the trunk.
Country of Origin
Central to southeastern Mexico in semiarid areas
Maintenance Tips
It is normal for the older leaves to have brown tips. If you decide to trim these brown tips, do not cut into the green part of the leaf. Remove the lower browned leaves and discard.
The swollen base stores water and can be allowed to go almost dry for long periods. If overwatered, the base will rot. If the bulb seems to be soft and pliable to the touch and the leaves are drooping, especially if the plant is dormant, it could mean the plant is overwatered and the bulb and roots are rotting. Carefully remove some of the soil around the roots. If they are black/brown and mushy or if the outer layer of peels off the root easily, then the problem is overwatering. If there are any good roots left (they would be light yellow or white, and firm), do not water for at least two weeks. Recheck the moisture level before irrigating. If there are no healthy roots or if the bulb breaks off the roots, replace the plant.
If the plant is wilting and the soil is completely dry, the plant is dehydrated. Water thoroughly and discard drainage. This plant can go for weeks with very light watering, especially in winter.
These plants do best when pot bound! Resist the urge to repot.
Pests and Problems
Reduce watering in the non-growing season to prevent rot. Stem rot, bacterial soft rot, mealy bug, spider mites, scale.
For more care information visit our comprehensive Indoor Gardening Guide.