Elephant Foot Palm

Beaucarnea can tolerate some drought - its roots store water in the swollen stem - but too much drought over an extended period can cause it to drop its leaves. Generally, the plant should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not allow it to dry out completely for long periods. Make sure it is well-draining. Over-watering can cause root rot so stay away from persistent wetness. During winter, the plant will need much less frequent watering, and go even further between watering when indoors.

This succulent thrives in full sun to partial shade. It will do well in most medium light levels, but enough light is important for keeping a healthy-looking form with bright green foliage. If the light is too low, the plant will become thin and leggy, and the leaves may turn brown or yellow. If there is too much direct sunlight, the leaves may get scorched. In the summer, partial shade outdoors, or placing the plant next to a window where it can get a couple of hours of direct sun and then some indirect light the rest of the day, is ideal.

Beaucarnea prefers warmer temperatures, usually between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It is not cold hardy and should be kept away from temperatures below 40°F (4°C). It will do well with average home temperatures, but will not tolerate extended periods of cold.

Beaucarnea does not require high humidity. It can tolerate low humidity environments but prefers moderate levels. If indoors during winter, you may need to use a humidifier if the environment is especially dry.

Beaucarnea prefers well-draining soil. Cacti and succulent soil mixes are a good choice, but regular potting soil mixed with sand, perlite, or pumice will also work. Make sure whatever soil you use can dry out between waterings.

Beaucarnea doesn’t need to be fertilized often, but if you choose to do so, use a cactus fertilizer once a month during the summer. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer to half of the recommended strength. If you choose to use a liquid fertilizer, do so every other watering. During winter, you do not need to fertilize at all. Too much fertilizer may cause burning to the roots or leaves, and even death of the plant. Water the plant before and after fertilizer application.

Beaucarnea is generally pest-free, but occasional pests you may encounter include mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites, and aphids. To deal with these pests, check your plant regularly for infestations and treat as soon as possible. Mealybugs and scale can be removed manually or with insecticidal soap, and spider mites and aphids can be treated with neem oil. Immediate treatment is key to protect your plant before the pest population gets out of control.

Beaucarnea rarely needs to be repotted. The only time it should be repotted is if the stem has become too swollen and is splitting due to over-watering. Repotting should take place in the early spring if the plant was overwatered and the stem is splitting or the roots are exposed. Make sure to use a well-draining potting soil.

Beaucarnea is a slow-growing plant, so pruning isn’t necessary very often. Occasionally, however, it may be good to remove any dead or dried out leaves. Some growers may opt to prune the stem to maintain a short size. This encourages the formation of side shoots and keeps the plant’s trunk short and wide.

Beaucarnea doesn’t need to be mulched, but a thin layer of wood chips can help with drainage. The chips should not be thick enough to cover the top of the soil and should extend no further than the stem of the plant.

Beaucarnea can be propagated from stem cuttings, although it may take some time for the roots to grow on the cutting. It’s best to use fresh, young stems with several leaf nodes. Insert the stem cutting into a well-draining potting soil and keep it warm, moist, and in moderate light. It may take weeks to months before the stem produces roots.

Beaucarnea may require some support as it can get heavy with its thick trunk and long arching leaves. If supported with something like a bamboo stick, it may be less likely to need pruning or repotting.

Beaucarnea does not need a rest period, but too much direct sun in the summer can cause the leaves to scorch. To avoid this, you may want to move the plant into shadier areas during the hottest summer days.

The Elephant Foot Plant is toxic to pets. If ingested, it can cause vomiting, drooling, and can cause irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach.