I don't really know anything about plants to be honest. I bought this from Walmart because it looks cool and I have no idea how to take care of it. If I knew what it was I'd do some research online and find out. The picture on the tag that I conveniently lost shows it growing into having a sort of a trunk like bottom similar to a palm tree. I really wish I could be more descriptive, but like I said I'm clueless.... it came from Walmart, though, so it can't be too hard to identify, right? Here are some pics!
Beacarnea recurvata - Pony Tail Palm/bottle palm. The base of the stem of this palm is used to store water which is a great help if you forget the odd watering or are away for a week or so. Watering is easy as you only need to water it when the soil becomes dry. You don't even need to mist the plant as it will be able to tolerate a dry environment but be careful not to overwater. It like a bright position and will enjoy some direct sun but will also handle light shade. They only require average warmth but don't let it freeze though or it will die. A liquid feed can be given every month or so. Hope this helps you out. :-D
I have one also. Very easy to maintain... and mine is outdoors. Here it is... Ponytail Palm ( photo / image / picture from cherylad's Garden )
thanks a lot, everyone, for the quick replies! I'm so glad I stumbled onto this site, such a useful tool.
I guess I would have one more question... the top of the soil has rocks that are seemingly glued together. While this gives it a cool look, I can't help but think it can't possible be good for the plant, and it makes it impossible to check how moist the soil is. should I break this rocks off and replace it with a better soil?
