Portulacaria is a succulent that thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and requires minimal watering, making it easy to care for. Special care points include ensuring the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot and maintaining warmer temperatures, as portulacaria is frost-sensitive. Regular pruning helps maintain a compact growth habit and encourages new growth.
Watering schedule: Every 3 weeks
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun
| Care Difficulty | Easy |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
| Watering Schedule | Every 3 weeks |
| Sunlight Requirements | Full sun |
| Hardiness Zones |
9-12
|
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Elephant bush (*Portulacaria afra*) is a succulent native to South Africa, easily recognized by its small, rounded green leaves and crimson stems. This cute semi-evergreen succulent is cultivated as an ornamental, most commonly in escaping, and as a bonsai plant.
The elephant bush 'Variegata' is a stubby, perennial shrub with reddish-brown stems and fleshy white leaves. It is named so because elephants love to eat them. This plant thrives in warmer climates and does well in potting mixes ideal for cacti and other succulents. Although it can grow to a height of 6 m, it is pruned to 3 m for easy maintenance.
Portulacaria fruticulosa is a succulent shrub characterized by its sturdy, reddish-brown branches and thick, fleshy green leaves which allow it to thrive in dry environments by retaining moisture. This plant is easily recognizable by its small, star-shaped pink or purplish flowers that bloom in clusters, adding to its charm and making it a favorite for water-conserving gardens.
Common issues for Portulacaria based on 10 million real cases
