Consulta Plantas

Care of the succulent plant Portulacaria afra or Elephant bush

The genus Portulacaria, family Didiereaceae, comprises 7 species of succulent plants native to southern Africa. Some species are: Portulacaria afra, Portulacaria armiana, Portulacaria namaquensis.

Common names: Elephant bush, Dwarf jade plant, Porkbush. This species is native to South Africa.

They are fast growing succulent shrubs that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height. The fleshy leaves are 2 cm (0,78") long and oval or rounded. They produce small pink flowers that appear in tufts. They bloom in late spring.

Elephant bush is used to form hedges, in rockeries, in pots for patios and terraces and as bonsai. It's ideal plants for gardens by the sea.

Portulacaria afra needs full sun exposure and a warm frost-free climate.

The soil can be a normal garden substrate with 1/4 of peat and 1/4 of coarse sand. Transplant in spring if necessary.

Water all year round in a moderate way, waiting for the substrate to be dry. Dwarf jade plant is a drought resistant plant.

Porkbush can be pruned in early spring to keep it compact.

Fertilize once a month with liquid fertilizer during spring and summer.

Portulacaria afra is a plant resistant to pests but sensitive to excess watering.

Elephant bush is propagated in summer by cuttings planted in a sandy substrate.

Images of the succulent plant Portulacaria afra or Elephant bush