Read practical advice
Explore straightforward guides for choosing, using and caring for garden products.
Visit the Advice CentreIndoor plants
Product information
Everything useful in one place, with the most important information kept separate from the buying controls above.
About this product
Beaucarnea recurvata (syn. Nolina recurvata)
14cm Pot
Plant Highlights: Sculptural trunk base • Arching strap-like foliage • Drought-tolerant indoor habit • Architectural foliage display
Overview
Beaucarnea recurvata, commonly known as the ponytail palm, is a distinctive indoor foliage plant admired for its swollen trunk base and graceful cascade of narrow, arching leaves. Despite its palm-like appearance, it is not a true palm, and its unusual shape makes it a popular choice for adding architectural interest to indoor spaces.
The thickened trunk stores water, allowing this plant to cope with periods of dryness when grown in suitable conditions. Its compact size in a 14cm pot makes it well suited to shelves, desks, plant stands and smaller indoor displays where its sculptural form can be appreciated.
Why We Love It
- Unusual trunk shape creates a natural focal point
- Long arching leaves add texture and movement
- Stores water for more forgiving watering routines
- Compact size suits smaller indoor spaces
- Provides year-round foliage interest
Plant Details
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Beaucarnea recurvata |
| Synonym | Nolina recurvata |
| Common Name | Ponytail palm |
| Plant Type | Indoor foliage plant |
| Supplied Format | 14cm pot |
| Light | Bright light |
| Foliage | Long, narrow arching leaves |
| Growth Habit | Upright with swollen trunk base |
| Compost | Free-draining indoor compost |
| Mature Size | Typically reaches an indoor height of 1.5–2.5m and a spread of 1–1.5m over many years. |
| Care Level | Easy |
Growing Guide
Light
Place in a bright position with plenty of natural light. A bright windowsill or conservatory can suit this plant well. Avoid very dark positions, as growth will become slower and the foliage may become weaker.
Watering
Allow the compost to dry well between waterings. The swollen trunk stores moisture, so overwatering is more harmful than occasional dryness. Reduce watering during darker winter months when growth naturally slows.
Compost and Feeding
Use a free-draining indoor plant compost, ideally one that allows excess water to escape easily. Feed occasionally during active growth with a suitable houseplant fertiliser, following the product instructions.
Routine Care
Remove any dry older leaves carefully and wipe the foliage occasionally to keep it looking fresh. Repot only when needed, as this plant generally prefers not to be disturbed too often.
Indoor Placement
A bright living room, home office or conservatory can suit Beaucarnea recurvata, where its unusual trunk and flowing foliage can be displayed clearly. Keep it away from cold draughts and strong heat sources such as radiators.
Good to Know
Although commonly called a ponytail palm, Beaucarnea recurvata is not a palm. Its water-storing trunk is an adaptation that means careful watering is the key to keeping it healthy indoors.
Product Information
- Supplied in a 14cm nursery pot.
Indoor growing & care
- Plant type
- houseplant
- Watering
- low
- Soil & drainage
- Free draining
- Mature size
- 2.5m high· 1.5m wide
- Foliage
- evergreen
Choose with confidence
Find the right plant for your space
Use the Plant Finder, practical advice or our in-store team before deciding.
See it before choosing
Visit Easy Garden to compare products in person and speak with our team.
Plan your visit