Beaucarnea recurvata
Beaucarnea recurvata

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Lower Risk
Spread long distances by wind

Beaucarnea recurvata (Ponytail Palm; Elephant's Foot)

This palm-like plant is native to Belize, Guatemala and southeast Mexico. The species’ native range has a similar climate to some areas of NSW. Despite this, there is no evidence Ponytail Palm has naturalised in Australia, or elsewhere outside its native range. Ponytail Palm has been in ornamental trade in Australia since 1857. This species produces viable wind-dispersed seed after 10 years. There is no evidence of spread via vegetative reproduction. This plant resembles a palm with a distinctive swollen base. Is utilised as both an indoor plant or an outdoor tree in warmer climates. Beaucarnea recurvata has downward curving leaves with older plants producing small pinkish flowers.