🌴 Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

The Ponytail Palm isn’t a true palm but a succulent tree from eastern Mexico 🌴 prized for its elegant, fountain-like leaves and bulbous water-storing base. In kokedama form, it’s a sculptural statement that blends tropical grace with drought tolerance. Perfect for minimal-care plant lovers who still want something dramatic and conversation-worthy.

• Loves bright, indirect light and can handle some direct morning or evening sun.
• Will tolerate lower light but grows more slowly.
• Best near south- or west-facing windows with filtered rays.

• Unlike most kokedama, Ponytail Palms like to dry out completely between waterings.
• Water every 2–3 weeks, or when the moss feels fully dry and lightweight.
• Give about ¾–1 cup of water, allowing it to absorb slowly.
• Never keep the moss constantly damp 💧 the base stores water like a desert plant.
  💡 Tip: Overwatering is the only real danger; if in doubt, wait another few days before watering.

• Feed every 2 months in spring and summer with a diluted succulent or cactus fertilizer.
• Skip feeding during fall and winter dormancy.
• Avoid heavy fertilizing 🌿 this species grows slowly and naturally compact.

• Thrives in 65–85 °F (18–29 °C).
• Prefers dry indoor air; humidity is not required.
• Keep away from cold drafts or temps below 55 °F (13 °C)

• Wipe leaves occasionally with a damp cloth to remove dust.
• Trim only fully brown leaf tips for a tidy look.
• Very slow-growing — expect one or two new leaf clusters per year.
• Can remain in kokedama form for 12–18 months before needing refresh or rewrap.

Rewrap or repot when:

• The bulb begins to push through or crack the moss.
• Growth stalls for several months.
• The moss dries almost immediately after watering.
  If repotting, use a gritty cactus mix with sand, pumice, and perlite for strong drainage.

Despite its palm-like name, the Ponytail Palm is actually a member of the Asparagus family. Its swollen trunk base 💫 called a caudex 💫 stores water, allowing it to survive long dry spells.

• Light: Bright, indirect; tolerates direct morning/evening sun
• Water: Every 2–3 weeks; allow to dry out fully
• Humidity: Low; thrives in normal indoor air
• Temperature: 65–85 °F (18–29 °C)
• Feeding: Every 2 months with cactus fertilizer
• Maintenance: Wipe leaves; trim brown tips
• Kokedama Lifespan: 12–18 months before rewrapping
• When to Refresh: Bulb breaks moss or moss dries too fast
• Difficulty: Easy 🪴 great for forgetful waterers
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans

Although non-toxic, always monitor pets and small children who might chew leaves. For any concerns, contact Poison Control 1-800-222-1222.