Beaucarnia recurvata, sometimes called pony-tail palm, is in the Asparagaceae family of plants. The swollen stem base resembles an elephant's foot. The base serves as a water reservoir during dry periods. It is native to Texas and Mexico. The stem tapers upward above the swollen base and is topped with a mass of hanging curly leaves.

Sometimes suckers grow near the base. You can leave the suckers to grow--creating a bushier tree--or remove them. If you prefer a single-trunked plant, you can cut the sucker off close to the root ball.

Alternatively, you can use the sucker to produce a new specimen though the results are unpredictable and success is not guaranteed. Do this by removing the sucker and planting it in a new pot with soil similar to the original plant. This is best done in the spring. Keep it well watered until it is established. 

You can find additional information about caring for this plant in our Guide to Ponytail Palm.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service