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Beaucarnea gracilis
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Description:
A mature Beaucarnea gracilis has an enormously swollen
base that tapers gradually to a narrow trunk with many
branches in the upper half of the plant. The base of a young
plant is rounded and exposed above the soil. The plant is
topped by a cluster of pale green, erect to spreading leaves.
Leaves range from 6-24 inches long by ¼ inch wide. They have
minute teeth along the edge making the edge razor sharp.
Ancient specimens may produce clusters of small white flowers.
Plants are dioecious, meaning only female plants will produce
seed.
Habitat and Distribution:
Beaucarnea
gracilis is native to open, arid habitats in Puebla and
possibly extreme northern Oaxaca in southern Mexico.
Ornamental
Features: With
its rough textured, swollen base and stiff leaves, Beaucarnea
gracilis is an attractive potted plant.
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Beaucarnea gracilis in a 6 inch pot. |
Beaucarnea gracilis in the Tehuacan Valley of southern Puebla, Mexico |
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