Elephant Bush
portulacaria afra
Also known as: ["Spekboom","Elephant Food"]
Overview
A succulent shrub native to South Africa, known for its fleshy, succulent leaves and reddish-brown stems.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","pet-friendly","fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dioscoreales |
| Family: | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus: | Portulacaria |
| Botanical Name: | Portulacaria afra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor garden in warm, dry climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned heavily if shaping is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 6–8 hours/day; can tolerate full sun but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid overwatering; topdress with fresh soil annually.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm conditions year-round.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from cold drafts; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), bright indirect light, high humidity (60–70%), and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and potting soil or pure succulent/cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium barely moist; avoid direct sun until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or branch junction.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth; best done in spring/summer.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim any circling roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; essential for healthy growth due to rapid root development.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) when top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or blackened stems from cold; wilting or sunburn from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Causes wilting, leaf scorch, and dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently if heat is prolonged.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPortulacaria afra is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of poisoning in felines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPortulacaria afra is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in canines from this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPortulacaria afra is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in landscaping and as a houseplant without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Portulacaria afra toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Portulacaria afra?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in winter.
Q: Can Portulacaria afra be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it thrives indoors in bright, indirect light with minimal care.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Dioscoreaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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