Description
Portulacaria afra variegata, also known as Variegated Elephant Bush, is a semi-succulent shrub with attractive green and cream leaves on reddish stems. Native to South Africa, it’s a drought-tolerant, easy-care plant that works beautifully as a bonsai, hanging plant, or decorative succulent.
- Full Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra variegata
- Common Names: Variegated Elephant Bush, Rainbow Bush, Dwarf Jade Plant
- Country and/or Region of Origin: South Africa
- Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in arid, rocky scrublands, storing moisture in its fleshy leaves and stems
- Care Guide:
- Light: Full sun to bright indirect light; more sunlight enhances variegation
- Ideal Room: Conservatory, sunny windowsill, or bright living room
- Feeding: Cactus fertilizer every 8 weeks in the growing season
- Humidity: Prefers low humidity; suited to dry indoor air
- Ideal Temperature: 18–30°C; protect from frost below 10°C
- Watering: Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; water sparingly in winter
- Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic (species level) — safe for pets and humans; ingestion of large amounts may cause mild digestive upset
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with sand and perlite
- Propagation: Stem cuttings root easily when calloused and placed in soil
- Eventual Height and Spread: 30–60 cm tall indoors; can grow over 2 m outdoors
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast under bright light
- Pests and Treatment: Rare; mealybugs may appear, remove manually or use neem oil
- Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when rootbound
- Pruning: Trim regularly to maintain shape or train as a bonsai
- Air Purification: Good; helps absorb COâ‚‚ and produce oxygen efficiently
- Folklore: In South African culture, it’s regarded as a symbol of prosperity and endurance
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