Ponytail Palms (also known as Elephant's Foot Palms) are a long-lived indoor plant that thrives on neglect. Easy to grow, adaptable to various light conditions and rewarding.
The Ponytail is not a true palm -- it's actually closely related to Dessert plants like Agave or Yucca and is native to eastern Mexico. Bases of the plant are a large, water storing stump which tapers off to a thinner stem. Atop the stem, long green leathery leaves form to create a unique look. As the plant ages, the leaves grow longer and atop the plant more form. With proper care, this plant may grow to become several feet tall over time.
Sometimes you'll find Ponytails with multiple base stumps, shown in our photo. The stumps may be divided into separate plants, or allowed to cluster providing an interesting overall effect.
This is a rather easy to care for plant. It likes a filtered light and will adapt to various locations. Should the end of the "leaves" become brown, a quick trim restores the plant to wonderful glory. Water only when the soil becomes dry, they don't like to be overwatered. You may place them outdoors in a dappled sunlight by gradually acclimating them to the selected environment. Don't leave them out when evening temperatures are lower than 55 degrees. Fertilize them in Spring and mid-summer with a "Cactus" fertilizer mixed with their water.
Use a fast draining soil, such as a cacti and succulent potting mix. Create your own mix with 1 part perlite, one part sand and one part quality potting mix. Select a container with a drainage hole and do not allow the plant to stand in water - clay pots are preferred as they will absorb water and dry the soil out more quickly. Be careful when moving the plant around, as it has serrated edges that may cut skin.
Take home a Ponytail from Oakdale Greenhouses, we have many sizes available! Hours, directions and more are on our webite: www.OakdaleGreenhouses.com
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| Photo Credit: Raymond Cathode |
