About
Portulacaria afra, the elephant bush, is a slow-growing, evergreen succulent shrub with small, fleshy, glossy, mid-green leaves. Clusters of tiny, saucer-shaped, pale-pink flowers are produced at the tips of the stems in summer. Mature stems have grey bark; young stems are often flushed red. An excellent and easy-care succulent for a sunny, frost-free position.
About the genus
Portulacaria are shrubby succulents from South Africa with fleshy, jointed stems and small, oval, succulent leaves. Inconspicuous pink flowers are produced in small clusters. Grown as ornamental succulents in frost-free positions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Shrubs, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Care notes
CultivationGrow in very well-drained compost, such as cactus compost, in bright but indirect light. Water well between mid-spring and mid-autumn; keep almost dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
PruningMinimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings, rooting sections of stem with bottom heat in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free