Also known as Bubble-Leaf · Dwarf Jade · Elephant's Food
Elephant bush (Portulacaria afra) is a succulent shrub with small, green, ovate leaves and red stems, native to South Africa. It's drought-tolerant and can be pruned into
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light, but can tolerate full sun
Allow to dry out between waterings
25% intensity
Reduce watering in winter
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C; can tolerate brief drops to around 10°C
Feed during growing season
50% intensity
Use diluted balanced liquid fertilizer
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly when dry, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering significantly during winter months when the plant is dormant, providing just enough to prevent the soil from becoming bone dry.
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, or remove any dead or damaged stems. Pruning can be done at any time, but it is most beneficial in spring to shape the plant for the growing season.
Cuttings can be used for propagation.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings of about 10-15 cm, remove the lower leaves, and allow them to callus for a few days. Plant in well-draining soil.
Rooting typically occurs within 2-4 weeks in warm conditions.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra)
Where Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Didiereaceae |
| Genus | Portulacaria |
| Species | Portulacaria afra |
Similar in genus Portulacaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
