Beaucarnea recurvata

ponytail palm

Also known as: Elephant Foot Tree, Bottle Palm, Elephant's Foot

Ponytail Palm is a unique and easy care plant known for its swollen trunk and long, cascading green leaves. Native to the dry regions of eastern Mexico, it is not actually a palm but a member of the asparagus family. Its thick trunk stores water, allowing the plant to handle dry conditions and go longer between waterings. Ponytail Palm grows best in bright light and well drained soil, making it a great choice for living rooms, offices, patios, and bright indoor spaces. Slow growing and long lived, it becomes even more sculptural and impressive as it matures.

SHOP BY SIZE:

plant tips

  • water

    Water thoroughly every 2–3 weeks in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce to once a month or less in winter — less is always more with this plant.

  • light

    Thrives in bright indirect light to full sun. Place near a sunny window indoors for best results — the more light, the better it grows.

  • zone

    Houseplant.

  • mature size

    Approx. 48" W × 72" H

care

Plant in well-draining, sandy soil — a cactus or succulent mix works perfectly. Water only when the soil is completely dry and feed with a balanced fertilizer once a month during spring and summer. Trim any brown leaf tips with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. In cooler climates, bring container plants indoors before temperatures drop below freezing and place near a bright, sunny window.

decor inspo

  • indoor space tabletop charm

    Place Ponytail Palm on a living room coffee table or side table for a unique, sculptural accent that adds a fresh, modern touch to any indoor space.

  • living room sculptural statement

    Place Ponytail Palm as a floor plant in any bright living room corner for a bold, architectural focal point that looks stunning year-round.