Portulacaria afra
elephant bush
A slow-growing, evergreen succulent shrub with small, fleshy, glossy green leaves. Mature stems have greyish bark and young stems are often flushed with red. Clusters of tiny, saucer-shaped pale pink flowers are produced at the tips of the stems in summer
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
1–1.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Didiereaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Portulacaria are shrubby succulents with fleshy stems, branches and leaves. Inconspicuous flowers are produced in small clusters
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings, rooting sections of stem with bottom heat in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1
Pests
May be susceptible to scale insects
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.