Portulacaria afra

RHS Plant Profile
elephant bush

Other common names

porkbush, rainbow bush, spekboom, tree purslane

Cactus Succulent Shrubs Houseplants

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

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Loam, Sand

Max Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Max Spread

1-1.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
10–20 years
Max Spread
1-1.5 metres
Max Height
1.5-2.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H1B

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Didiereaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
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

  • Houseplants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical
  • Conservatory and greenhouse

Pruning

Minimal pruning required, see pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects

Diseases

Generally disease-free