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Native to arid regions in Central America, Beaucarnea recurvata, or usually called Ponytail Stump Palm, is not a palm but a succulent species in the Asparagaceae family. This evergreen plant has palm-like slender leaves that emerge from a bulbous, grayish trunk which gives it the nickname "bottle palm".
Ponytail Palm is a slow grower and may take 5 years to grow 1 foot in height. This plant gives a green tropical vibe, but as a succulent, it is very tolerating and requires minimal care. This is one of the easiest compact indoor plants for homes and offices.
Ponytail Palm can be grown outdoors in USDA zone 10-11 in well-draining, sunny gardens, where it can reach up to 20 feet in height.
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Ponytail Palm loves bright, indirect sunlight and it needs at least a couple of light daily. Put this plant in the brightest spot in your room away from intense direct sunlight. If grown outdoors, make sure this plant has some shade during the afternoon when sun rays are harshest.
As a succulent, this plant has low watering needs. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch. Water thoroughly, drain well, and let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering during the cold months.
Ponytail Palm needs well-draining, porous soils. You can choose a cactus potting soil or mix some perlite and sand with houseplant potting soil to increase drainage and aeration.
Ponytail thrives in normal room temperatures between 65°F-80°F and average room humidity (30-50%). It doesn't mind a bit of dry air so you don't have to mist this plant as often as you would with other tropical houseplants which enjoy humid environments.
This plant should be fertilized once per month during the growing season (spring/summer) with diluted houseplant fertilizer.
This plant is not toxic.
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USDA Zone 10-11
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)