I wouldn't trim the roots any. Just pull them apart gently. You will have some roots break off, but that is normal. I think they will be happier apart. I have seen them left alone. What happens is the bottom parts mesh together and become one. Your rootball looks normal to me and quite healthy.

Looks very root-bound, and would benefit from separation and root-pruning.
I just re-potted a guatamalense yesterday, removed soil and some lower roots, and put into a bonsai pot.

Josh

I personally prefer the appearance of the two together rather than separated. I've three in one clump and they are among my favorite houseplants. Just my thing.

This is a Beaucamea isn't it?

If you want to separate those two, use a shovel to chop them apart, or a sharp knife and slice. I agree that it is rootbound. I would remove (sever) the bottom half of the root ball, then fluff the soil out of the remaining roots, and chop any that are more than 3-4 inches long.

I guess I was never taught to cut the roots except on a spider plant. It's called Beaucarnea Recurvata.

It has not been my experience that this cares what you do with its roots, at all. Hack away.

Thanks so much for the responses. I was quite amazed when I pulled it out of the pot and saw how root bound it is. Yes, it is a Beaucarnea recurvata.

I too like the look of the 2 together, but I did buy it with the intention of separating them and giving one to a friend. I have 2 shorter 12 inch pots that I would like to put them in so I will have to trim the bottom off the root ball.

Or I could be greedy and leave them together and keep them both. LOL
Tami

I believe these plants like to be pot bound. I think they are beautiful together.

No plant "likes" or prefers to be root-bound.
A plant's vitality begins to decline once the roots have filled the pot.
Please follow the link for more information on the subject.

Josh

Here is a link that might be useful: Myth: This Plant Likes/Prefers to be Root-bound