The plant that I am going to talk to you about now is one of the most used for gardens located in places where the climate is mild and dry. So much so that it is very common to find it in botanical gardens specialized in plants of desert or semi-desert origin. The base of its trunk swells in such a way that it reminds us of a limb of some animal that is mainly on the African continent.
You know which one I mean, right? The Elephant foot It is a very resistant plant that will give you great satisfaction. Do we learn to take care of it?
La Beaucarnea recurvata, which is how botanists know it, is native to Mexico, where it can reach the extraordinary height of ten meters. However, in cultivation it rarely exceeds eight meters, like the one found in Alicante (Spain). This Alicante specimen has some Age 300, and so far it has reached eight meters in height and its trunk has thickened three meters.
It is rather slow growing, especially if it is potted. And, by the way, speaking of pots: it is often said that this plant will grow better if it has tight roots, but from my own experience I can tell you that the more substrate it has, the more it will grow. Of course, it is necessary to increase the size of the pot gradually, since otherwise we would have to run the risk of said substrate being flooded, something that could harm the plant. To avoid this, it is also recommended to use the following mixture: vermiculite, volcanic clay and black peat in equal parts.
Living in a dry climate, it should not be overwatered. Ideally, let the soil dry completely before watering again. The Elephant's Foot resists mild and short-term frostsBut if the thermometer in your area drops below four degrees below zero, don't worry: will grow just as well indoorsr.
And you, do you have any?
Very interesting!. I didn't even know that this plant existed, I loved the note and the images.
If I have a potted one in the garden and I hesitate to put it directly in the sun.
Hello Maribel.
Yes, it is the most recommended. But you have to get used to it little by little, so that it does not burn 🙂
Greetings.