How to Grow and Care for a Ponytail Palm

The ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) is an eye-catching and low-maintenance house plant. Despite its name, it’s not a true palm but belongs to the Asparagaceae family. Originating from Mexico, it’s also known as Nolina (its former genus name), the elephant’s foot tree or bottle palm due to its swollen trunk base. Its unique appearance, resilience and ease of care make it an excellent choice for beginner and experienced gardeners.

The ponytail palm is easily recognisable by its long, slender and arching leaves that resemble a ponytail, hence its name. It can reach a height of 4.5m in the wild, but more realistically 2.5m when grown indoors.

As a slow-growing perennial plant, the ponytail palm can live for several decades when properly cared for, with some specimens known to live for over 100 years.

Grow ponytail palm in a free-draining house-plant compost in bright, indirect light. Water sparingly and allow the compost to dry out completely between waterings.

Position the ponytail palm a spot that has bright, indirect light, such as near a north-facing window or set back from a south or west-facing window.

Select a pot that is slightly larger than the rootball. Fill the bottom with a layer of compost, place the plant in the centre, and fill in the remaining space with compost, gently firming it around the roots.

Avoid burying the trunk too deeply – the swollen base should remain partially exposed for aesthetic purposes. Water thoroughly after planting and allow the top inch of compost to dry out before watering again.

Caring for a ponytail palm is relatively easy. Water it sparingly, as it’s highly