Beaucarnea
Introduction
Beaucarnea recurvata is one of the best plant choices for the home. A common indoor houseplant we call `ponytail palm’ or `elephants foot’.
The genus is native to Mexico and Central America. Its meaning comes to us from 1861 when it was named after a Belgian botanist - Jean-Baptiste Beaucaire.
In Mexican culture, the ponytail palm symbolizes resilience.
Where are they from ?
Almost desert like - a dry season followed by a short rainy season, and hot, hot, and more hot !
The massive base is called a caudex – all the different species have this adaptation. It’s a specialized stem (trunk) that has evolved to store water and nutrients. It’s a big giveaway that this plant evolved in a hot dry place with infrequent rains. All plants with caudexes have evolved in similar environments.
The roots are also not very deep and extend outwards in all directions for a long distance. This is again another clue that it comes from an environment with infrequent rain. This large perimeter of roots allows the plant to absorb surface water quickly from a bigger area when it does rain – and before it evaporates !
Traditional Medicine
While research is limited, some studies suggest that the plants in the genus may have anti-inflammatory properties. It is also possible they contain antioxidants. It is also known for improving indoor air quality by removing toxins.
Care
Perfect neglect loving plant for a home in a sunny or bright window. They are very slow growers and live very long lives. Somes individuals have been recorded at 350+ years. Water only after the soil is completely dry during summer. Once a monthly only in winter.
It blooms only after many years as an adult – and infrequently at that - so don’t expect any while in your care.
Its also non toxic to children or pets – so chew away kids !!!
Species
Although there many different species - only B. recurvata and B. guatemalensis are more commonly used as ornamentals.
Beaucarnea recurvata
A grouping in the wild
Caudex
A typical large swollen base used for storing water
Inflorescence
Long spikes from the top central point of growth with a multitude of florets
Environment where it evolved
Beware of the serrated leaf edge !
Seeds !!!!
Why not put one in your sunny window – like immediately !
Call us - we know where to get you one !
PLANT SPECIALISTS
GREENING NEW YORK FOR OVER 53 YEARS !
Article written by our Staff Horticulturist, Peter B Morris, BSc, MSc, MBA
All photographs used with permission @SHUTTERSTOCK
