Help!
By Wendy
sunny scotland,
United Kingdom 
Firstly hello everyone im new here,and would love some help,i saved this lovely plant-tree lol,from being put into the dump! I brought it home and im trying to nurse it back to health.
I dont know what is is called,what conditions it likes, and how or should i pot it on, as pot it is in is a very tight fit, it has some browning on the tips of its leaves,such a lovely looking plant and dont want to kill it with kindness lol. any help would be great, thank you.x
25 Oct, 2007
Answers
I think it's the Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) also known as the Elephant-foot tree.
If so it thrives on neglect (maybe I should get one!!!!!) It likes lots of light, little water as it stores it in the base of the trunk and room temp heat.
The brown leaf tips are a common problem as are mealybugs.
Hope this helps
26 Oct, 2007
Hello again - having looked in books, I agree with maple. A little more info - avoid overwatering and keep above 50 fahrenheit in winter. Could be repotted in spring if necessary, as can any offshoots. In the USA where it's popular, it can reach ceiling height!!!! (PS thanks for lovely message - much appreciated)
26 Oct, 2007
Just thought I would let you know that "Yes" it is commonly called a ponytail palm. I bought one for my sister last year that is about the 1/3 the size of yours. She gives it 1 cup of water a week and it does great. P.S. I paid ove $40 for the plant. GREAT SAVE!!!
1 Nov, 2007
Hi Wendy - glad you found us! I'll look though ref. books tomorrow for your plant - don't recognise it but will try!!!
25 Oct, 2007