Do Ponytail Palms Have Short Roots?

About Tree Roots

• The majority of trees have shallow roots, according to the University of Florida IFAS extension. In most cases, the roots do not extend more than 3 feet below the surface of the soil. Instead, they grow horizontally in search of water. Smaller roots are often found just below the soil. Ponytail palms are no exception, whether grown indoors or out. The former is more common, as ponytail palms are not tolerant of freezing temperatures. The plants are often grown in containers and cultivated as houseplants. Their root systems are so small that they can be grown in small pots and may even become root-bound, which will not harm them.

Ponytail Palms & Water

• Ponytail palms don't need extensive root systems because the plants store water in their trunks. In fact, one tree can store up to a year's worth of water, according to Gardening Australia. It's best not to over-water these plants, as the small, fine roots rot easily. Let the soil dry to the touch before watering the plant again, and plant potted plants in containers that have holes in the base to allow for better drainage. Outdoor plants should not be cultivated where water tends to collect.

Appearance & Culture

• The ponytail palm can reach a maximum height of 6 to 8 feet, with a maximum canopy spread of 5 feet. In the wild, some trees have been known to reach 30 feet, but trees more than 10 feet tall are rarely seen. Outdoors, the tree produces showy clusters of white or yellow flowers, but it rarely blooms indoors, according to the Missouri Botanical Garden. The long, slender leaves are attractive enough to make it an interesting foliage plant, however. Outdoors, it grows equally well in full sunlight and in partial shade, and because it can easily tolerate drought conditions, it will grow in climates where little natural water occurs.

Indoor and Container Tips

• Choose a container that you like and that will last a long time. These plants are slow-growing and do not require a lot of space, so your plant may last for several years -- even decades -- in the same pot. Place the potted plant on a sunny windowsill where it receives bright but indirect sunlight and where it will stay dry and warm. Windows that allow cold drafts are not a good location.