Product description
Beaucarnea Recurvata is a unique palm with a greyish brown trunk and long, slender leaves emerging from its thick base. The robust trunk earns the plant its common name, “Elephant’s Foot”. As a Mexico native, the plant stores water in the trunk to avoid dehydration in the desert.
This plant also has yet another name - Ponytail Palm - which it gets from its leaves which curl and fall just like ponytails. The cascading effect created by the leaves makes this a beautifully unique houseplant.
Place Beaucarnea Recurvata in bright, indirect sunlight where it will grow best, although it will happily tolerate some shade now and again. Water regularly and thoroughly; however, the trunk's water store will help whenever you forget to water! It’s also a great plant for dry, heated homes with very low humidity.
This houseplant is an excellent choice for any plant lover since it is low maintenance and very easy to grow. Its miniature size means it’s perfect for anyone with smaller spaces to fill, whether it be a smaller living room or hallway, or a desk of shelf.
It’s not unusual to give your plant a name… so don’t hesitate to choose one that you think suits the plant! Try naming your plant with the first name or word that you think of when you look at it - that’s how we ended up with an orchid named Clover and spider plant called Joseph.
House Plant Size Guide
House plants come in a wide array of shapes and sizes depending on the variety and maturity of the plant.
6cm/12cm/15cm/19cm/23cm nursery pots are the most common size of pot that they are sold in. This measurement is the diameter at the top of the pot.
12cm potted plants are the most popular providing great value for money and an instant impact. Larger plants that come in pots of 20cm+ are great for making a statement in any room and can represent years of growth to get to that level of maturity and size.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
Instructions
Top Tip
Place your Beaucarnea in a warm, bright location away from draughts to mimic its natural habitat. Dust the leaves occasionally to keep them looking fresh and to maximise photosynthesis. If the plant becomes top-heavy, repot it in a slightly larger container with additional support. With minimal care, this unique plant will add character to your home for years to come.
How to Water
Water Beaucarnea sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the growing season, water every two to three weeks, reducing the frequency in winter when the plant’s growth slows. Overwatering can cause root rot, so ensure excess water drains away completely. Use room-temperature, filtered water to avoid shocking the roots.
How to Plant
To plant Beaucarnea, choose a pot with excellent drainage and fill it with a well-draining potting mix, such as one designed for cacti or succulents. Position the plant so the swollen base sits above the soil surface, ensuring the roots are comfortably spread. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water lightly to settle the soil. Place the pot in a sunny spot, as Beaucarnea thrives in bright, indirect light.