Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) Leaf Drop Is Normal

It’s a Tree, Not a Shrub

Beaucarnea recurvata (often sold as “ponytail palm” or “elephant foot”) naturally sheds lower leaves as it grows a trunk. Your plant is healthy—new top growth confirms it.

Care for Best Appearance

• Light: Maximum sun. Summer outdoors in full sun dramatically improves density.
• Water: Deep soak, then let dry completely. Weekly in summer, monthly in winter.
• Water quality: Filtered/distilled/rainwater (no chlorine/fluoride).
• Pot: Can stay same pot for years. Slight root-binding is fine.

Base Swelling

The “elephant foot” base thickens with age. Yours may be young—it will expand over time.

Bottom Line

Don’t worry. It’s not dying—it’s growing into a tree form.