These wonderful palm-like succulents are native to Mexico and Guatemala.  They are drought-hardy, storing water in their caudex bases.  They like a position in the full sun, but can be grown in part or light shade, and need a well-draining soil.  Water sparingly, particularly in Winter, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again.  Beaucarnea (Nolina)  make an excellent feature plant whether grown in a dry or tropical-look garden, or kept in a container.