The flowers grow in contrasting shades of pink, white or purple. Overly bright sunlight can char the leaves and cause them to drop off. Last Updated on November 17, 2022 If you are looking for an easy to grow, drought tolerant plant that can be used as a hedge, then the Portulacaria afra, or Elephant Bush, is a perfect choice. Pour out any excess water collected and allow excess moisture to drain out. How is Portulacaria afra being used to fight climate change in South Africa? Yes, it is a succulent. Portulacaria Afra is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 15 ft (4.5 m) tall in the wild, but usually grows up to 6 feet (1.8 m) when grown at home. These thickets also absorbed large amounts of carbon dioxide. Portulacaria afra or Elephant bush overview, Portulacaria afra minima (Dwarf Elephant Food). This is a product of stem rot which usually happens when the plant is overwatered or so severely underwatered that the roots have died. Before fertilizing your plant, make sure you water it. In its natural environment, variegated elephant bush can reach heights of up to 20 feet (6 m.). Plants never grow above 1 foot tall, and are often even more prostrate. People also know it by its scientific name, Portulacaria afra. Click here to use ANCs affiliate link and code to receive a discount off of your first Soltech Solutions purchase. Not as common as the jade plant but definitely the runner up with that growth habit. They have reddish-brown stems with glossy green leaves. Although unrelated, it looks like the Jade Plant, with it's similar glossy green leaves and on thick, woody stems. Aurea sports neon yellow leaves that darken a little as they mature, but never become as green as the classic P. afra. This plant is equipped for some drought, but not equipped for being wet consistently. It has small, rounded leaves and is a great choice for those looking for a more unique plant. However, there is a beautiful solution to having the lush green thumb. It just requires a little patience and love. This plant wants a super well-draining mix. Required fields are marked *, A Natural Curiosity 2019-2023 | All rights reserved. If you dont have this plant in your collection, you should. ), youre in luck! Sandy soils are the best for your plant though you can opt for other soil types provided that they have good drainage. Here are 10 desert plants ideas when landscaping. One of the most common problems with Portulacaria Afra is over-watering. It grows quickly and is incredibly hardy. Use clean, sharp scissors. Elephant bush is very good at self-propagating. We recommend a watering frequency of once every 10-14 days. Important Note:Overwatering can be the product of watering a plant too frequently, but it can also be the product of allowing a plant to sit super dry for too long. P. afra can tolerate pretty much any humidity level. To see an example of this, check out the video below from Debra Lee Baldwin.Click here to use ANCs affiliate link and code to receive a discount off of your first Soltech Solutions purchase. If you want to take care of your own little plant babies or introduce someone else to the joys of succulent-growing (and why wouldnt you? They serve as food for elephants and other wildlife in their native habitat and can grow up to 20 feet tall. Occasionally bursts pink flowers especially when stressed. Underwatered leaves may be dull, thin, and possibly crispy. Then you provide your plant with a thorough watering and it doesnt have healthy roots to use the water up in a timely manner anymore. You can get the materials at your local hardware store or buy them online. Luckily, you can save your overwatered succulents and here are some tips to easily do it! The variegated variety Elephant Bush has green leaves with white or yellow edges. A. Water 0.8 cups every. of sand or gritty material to provide well drained soil. Succulent plants store water in their stems, which they rely on for nourishment in dry seasons. There aren't many options when it comes to varieties of Portulacaria afra you can use for bonsai growing. minima 'Lilliput' needs 0.8 cups of water every 12 days when it doesn't get direct sunlight and is potted in a 5.0" pot. Dissect some healthy stems at the foot of the parent plant using a sharp kitchen knife or a pair of scissors. The Echeveria species originate from Mexico and they grow fast. Use our water calculator to personalize watering recommendations to your environment or download Greg for more advanced recommendations for all of your plants. Your email address will not be published. The cactus family has a wide range of different species to choose from, but what is the most common types of cacti that you can grow too? How to Care for Elephant Bush Portulacaria care is similar to other succulent plants. This is due to several reasons. It looks a lot like the classic Jade plant (Crassula ovata), but with smaller leaves and redder stems, which is the reason it is commonly called Mini Jade or Dwarf Jade. How can you tell if a houseplant is rare? Any pot that has a drainage hole, assuming you are using a well-draining potting mix, should be fine. You can use a spray bottle to control your plants amount of water. For a quick fix, you can wipe the affected areas with cotton sponges that have been immersed in an alcoholic solution. First, check if one or two inches of the surface soil is completely dry before your next watering session. Your plants watering requirements will depend on the climatic conditions of your region. The most common mistake made in succulent plants is watering. If you are concerned about your plant possibly sitting too wet, a terracotta pot would be perfect since it wicks moisture out of the potting mix. When growing this plant, it is important to provide light and water whenever the soil feels dry. However, when the levels of CO2 increase to an imbalanced amount, then the temperatures around the globe begin to increase as well, causing all sorts of issues including farming obstacles. The most common mistake made in succulent plants is watering. You can also come up with your potting mix. Sterilize your scissors to avoid infecting the freshly propagated cuttings with trouble-some diseases. The Rainbow Bush Plant, elevated and shrub-like, originates from South Africa. This plant prefers temperatures of 65-75 F (18-24 C), and it should not be in rooms with drafts or near air conditioning vents or heating. Thrives in very well-drained compost, such as cactus compost, in bright but indirect light. Fertilize the plant annually with a balanced fertilizer in early spring. Jerome Kellerhals' bonsai garden is in sunny Florida, where he mainly works on semi-tropicals. Portulacaria Afra Light Requirement By meeting its simple lighting, watering, and soil requirements, you help ensure a thriving plant. The leaves are bright green and can change their color to red or purple when exposed to sunlight. Wrinkly leaves are usually due to underwatering. A good soil mixture for this plant should consist of purchased soil for succulents and cacti, coarse sand (can be replaced with perlite) and brick chips (or fine gravel), in a 3:1:1 ratio. Also, P. afra stems are super rubbery and moveable, unlike C. ovata whose stems will snap off with pressure. Occasional watering and a light monthly feeding from spring through fall are all that's needed to maintain magnificent plants. The hope is that Portulacaria afra will help to support plant and animal life once again by providing food and shade while also positively affecting the climate through carbon dioxide absorption. Heavy means it still has water. Cut just above the leaf nodes. Its popular with florists because its easy to care for and has a unique look that makes it stand out from other plants. The Dwarf Jade Plant does not bloom readily, but it can bring some flowers in clusters if you give it the best possible care. Pull the chopstick out. How do you care for it? You have successfully joined our subscriber list. Echeveria Elegans is a succulent houseplant and are well known for their bright, colorful and ornamental foliage (the leaves are the plant parts). Moderator. But, while hardy, spekboom is certainly not invincible.The plant used to be a dominant species in the subtropical thicket biome that, by one estimate, used to cover over a million hectares of South Africa. Portulacaria afra (dwarf jade/ elephant bush/ spekboom) is from a completely different family of plants than Crassula ovata (jade). Can Portulacaria Afra be grown outdoors? So they are an excellent choice to grow in window boxes or any sunny area in your house. You can also settle for the outgrowths which fall from the parent plant and develop on the container edges. Whether they grow in your yard or you bring one home from the nursery, most houseplant enthusiasts want to know what type of cactus they have. A cultivar with solid-colored leaves is also available and known simply as elephant bush. Use of any material from the site is permitted provided that it is linked to sukkulenty.com. It CAN grow when receiving at least a couple of hours of direct sunlight but will be even happier with higher amounts of direct sun. Alternatively, you can feed your plant with the recommended fertilizers discussed earlier. This bush is an important source of food for elephants, black rhinos, and other herbivores. Another important problem is pests. Please place it in a south-facing window, although east or west-facing windows can also do. Step 1: Cut a stem using a sterilized and sharpened knife or garden shears. This variety of Portulacaria is commonly known as the Elephants Mat. Portulacaria afra macrophylla has larger leaves than the original plant. The recommended mix keeps excess moisture from impairing the stems and roots. Is Portulacaria afra safe for pets? You also dilute a teaspoon of vinegar with 5-6 cups of water and use the solution. It can flourish in almost any climate because it is a succulent plant. Youll want to know how much sun you have to work with before purchasing your succulent or cacti. A cheap way to check whether your plant is ready for watering is to: If you think youve been underwatering your plant, dont give the plant a thorough watering since it cant use that water effectively due to root damage. Abundant and beautiful flowering can be observed only if the rules of cultivation are followed. It can also tolerate extreme heat and brief periods of frost. Portulacaria afra likes bright, indirect sunlight. In its native habitat in the eastern part of South Africa and the Limpopo Province from the Eastern Cape northward, it's found growing on dry, rocky slopes. Pick up the pot to assess whether it is light or heavy. Most homeowners go for this plant for its aesthetic value. Wouldn't want to sign up to get great content every month. To prevent a pest infestation, remove fallen leaves in a timely manner, keep the plant clean, and inspect it regularly for signs of pests. Your email address will not be published. Also known as variegated elephant bush or rainbow portulacaria plant, rainbow elephant bush (Portulacaria afra Variegata) is a shrubby succulent with mahogany stems and fleshy, green and creamy white foliage. The wild-growing sprawling Rainbow Bush plant is decorative and can be very appealing in a hanging basket. The elephant bush is easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for beginners or those who dont have a lot of time to care for plants. Can grow up to 8-12 ft. tall (240-360 cm) and 4-6 ft. wide (120-180 cm) in the ground in mild climates, but is usually around 5-6 ft. (150-180 cm) in a garden situation. We suggest using a 2:1 ratio of cactus mix to perlite or 2:1 of potting mix to coarse sand. If you notice them, try using insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them. Use a succulent & cacti mix or, even better, create a 50/50 blend of potting mix & an aerating substance like perlite, pumice, horticultural sand, etcetera. Once it is fully dry, give it a good thorough watering. Q. Position your cuttings in a spot that has indirect light. The 4 Most Common Types Of Cactus Plants (that you can grow too), How to Ship Succulents: 6 Essential Things You Need to Know, Madagascar Palm: 5 Steps To Successfully Propagate. The plant produces small white or pink flowers that bloom in summer. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'anaturalcuriosity_org-box-4','ezslot_5',158,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-anaturalcuriosity_org-box-4-0');This bush is an important source of food for elephants, black rhinos, and other herbivores. Light means it is dry and ready for a drink. With so many desert plants out there, it can be hard to tell the difference between them all. This is How To Make Your Own Succulent Soil, What Type of Cactus Do I Have? The roots will begin forming anytime from 2-4 weeks. Be sure the container has adequate drain holes. The Elephant Bush plant is a delicacy to South African natives and prepares stew and salads. So, while it can tolerate some neglect, it will start to suffer at some point. Give your elephant bush as much light as you can offer. Here, we list some of the most common succulent plants for container gardens who can tolerate a range of temperatures. We use cookies to provide you with up-to-date information. Cacti can grow in any climate if one takes proper care of them. Today, were sharing DIY succulent soil recipe details. There, it grows wild and its fleshy leaves are a delicatessen for elephants, goats and rhinos . The plant has been used traditionally to treat fatigue and exhaustion. every 12 days. If you shop for a houseplant, you will realize that this beauty goes by Elephant Bush Cactus, Rainbow Elephant Bush, Spekboom, Dwarf Jade Plant, and Porkbush. Elephant bush is native to the Kalahari region of Africa and will do remarkably well in similar conditions. . You can either let leaf cuttings be when they land in the pot or use the whole leaf plus the base to propagate. We have included the ones that offer different shades on the foliage. For this reason, it is usually grown as an indoor plant. The plant should be warm and protected from drafts. The star-shaped blooms develop once the plant is relatively mature, mainly following a rainy season. For that reason, think about the air-circulation needs of your plant and buy cactus potting soil. The leaves of Portulacaria afra are very small and round. This article will give you ideas for low maintenance plants that only need to be watered occasionally and will leave with a mini cactus garden to brighten up your home year round. Yes, it can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10-11. P. afra can grow to 12 feet or higher outdoors and develops a bush or shrub-like appearance with soft, woody stems and succulent leaves. It belongs to the family Portulacaceae and is closely related to the popular jade plant (Crassula ovata). Theyre beautiful, simple, and ancient but what do you do with them? Ensure that the container you choose has wide drainage holes. How to Grow and Care Choose a location with indirect sunlight when growing Elephant Bush indoors. This variety has a trailing growth habit, making it ideal for hanging baskets or for clinging to the edge of a pot. The Elephant Bush is drought tolerant, so it does not require watering daily. Lack of nutrients can also lead to yellowing. When young, the stem is green, but gradually turns brown as the plant ages. An unglazed pot is preferable because it allows excess moisture to evaporate. Discover the Secrets of Growing Haworthia fasciata Zebra Plant! This gives the plant a unique, eye-catching look that is perfect for those who want something more colorful. Common names include Elephant Bush, Elephant food, Dwarf Jade Plant, Porkbush, and Spekboom (Afrikaans). Lanky, stretched growth is usually because the plant isnt getting enough light to produce thick, robust growth. Because Portulacaria afra is used to poor conditions, it needs little nutrients to survive. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! This will help to ensure you do not accidentally overfertilize your plant. The succulents bark is smooth, but becomes flaky with age. When it comes to landscaping, desert plants are some of the most popular choices. If your Elephant Bush bush is becoming sluggish, its a sign that its not getting enough light. It has the same appearance as the unrelated jade plant. How to Grow and Care Choose a location with indirect sunlight when growing Elephant Bush indoors. If grown in full sun, the leaves will take on a reddish hue. Yes, Elephant Bush is non-toxic to pets and safe for your home. Find Variegated Elephant Food (Portulacaria afra 'Variegata') in Pittsburgh Murrysville Plum Monroeville Trafford Pennsylvania PA at Plumline Nursery (Dwarf Jade Plant, Rainbow Bush) Plumline Nursery 724-327-6775 It has thick, fleshy leaves that help it retain water and survive in dry conditions. Adenium Plant (Desert Rose) Does It Require Direct Sunlight? Keep the soil moist and place the cuttings in bright indirect sunlight until they take roots. How To Take Care Of Your Monkeys Tail: Ultimate Guide. To create a rich blend, you need peat moss, perlite, and sand. Well, Portulacaria afra (spekboom) used to be much more widely and densely spread throughout Southern Africa, helping to provide shade and food for other plants and animals. With the right care tactics, you can have healthy plants, in almost every room at your home. So what does this have to do with Partulacaria afra? Elephant bush is a succulent, so it prefers well-drained soil in which water escapes quickly. Portulacaria afra medio-picta is sort of like the reverse of the Rainbow bush, where the variegation is in the middle of the leaf with green edges surrounding it. This succulent is quite hardy, making it great for beginner gardeners. Portulacaria afra is also eaten by people: The foliage is edible and is commonly eaten in southern Africa, usually in salads or soups to add a sour flavor . To encourage your plant to bloom, provide adequate lighting and keep them cool and dry during the wintering period. Early detection is vital in controlling any infestations. A. How To Stop Firefly Population Decline, Whats Wrong With My Ginseng Learn About Ginseng Disease Control, Dividing Perennial Herbs: Learn About Herb Plant Division, What Is Leaf Mold: What Makes Leaf Mold Compost So Special, What Are Ramsons: Growing Wood Garlic In Gardens, Home & Garden Marketplace: Advertiser Info. Simply cut a stem cuttings about 3-4 inches (10 cm) long and remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem. This is probably not an all-inclusive list as there are often varieties that I havent heard of yet or dont know enough about to include here, but I will list all of the ones I do know about below! Throughout the growing season, usually from spring to fall, give your plant a good drink of water. Aloe vera: How to Care for This Classic Houseplant - A Natural Curiosity. They are cheap, they require minimal maintenance and can tolerate extreme temperatures. This technique works well when using standard terracotta pots and plastic pots. Whonline 6 Packs Macrame Plant Hanger, Plant Hangers Indoor Flower Pot Holder Handmade Cotton White Hanging Planter Basket for Plants Wall Window Outdoor Bedroom Boho Home Decor (6 Sizes), Succulent Rocks Coarse Sand for Plant 18lb 1/5" Natural Stones Aquarium Gravel for Bonsai Cactus Rocks Terrarium Vase Fillers Fish Tank Garden Decor (Black). Many people cant keep their houseplants alive and end up disappointed. Q. Move it to a brighter location and do some pruning to encourage the bush to grow. Though both scenarios will lead to leaf dropping, under-watered leaves will appear shriveled and flat, while excess water will lead to soft and mushy leaves. It is considered part of the Portulacaria family, commonly known as Purslane, although there is some research that suggests that it should be classified in the Didieraceae family. Although this species (Portulacaria afra) is sometimes referred to as "dwarf jade," "miniature jade," or "small leaf jade," it is unrelated to the jade plant, Crassula ovata.In the wild, spekboom grows to be a large shrub or small tree, reaching 15 feet tall or more. Portulacaria Afra does not require frequent pruning, but you can cut off excess shoots if the plant begins to stretch out too much or if you want to encourage the bush to grow. 1. Clusters of small, lavender-pink blooms may appear at branch tips. All you ask for is plenty of sun or . P ortulacaria afra, also known as the "Elephant Bush", is a perennial succulent found in South Africa. A small-leaved succulent plant native to South Africa, Portulacaria afra is a small, succulent plant that produces compact growth and rounded pads. The best time for propagation is during spring and summer. The elephant bush is a plant indigenous to South Africa, where it thrives on semi-arid and rocky slopes. However, it prefers the same household temperatures we do. Why Is Your Rosemary Turning Woody? Ultimate Guide: How To Care For Echeveria Elegans? The plant also makes a good feed for elephants, tortoises, and goats. It is a beautiful plant in which caring is very easy. Watch for pests like whitefly, spider mites, and mealybugs. Check your plant frequently to see if its potting mix has dried from top to bottom. Because of spekbooms remarkable growth rate, its rate of carbon capture can rival that of tropical forests, Sarah-Jane Paviour writes inher 2014 thesis on the properties of spekboom. Trailing Elephant Bush pinterest Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra prostrata Probably the most common pest on P. afra is mealybugs. Several varieties of this African succulent can be found in online stores and garden markets. Portulacaria afra is a small-leaved succulent plant, native to South Africa. Portulacaria afra is easily propagated by stem cuttings. Portulacaria Afra flowers are not particularly conspicuous and are not ornamental. Dry the cuttings for about 24hrs so that the wounds heal and form a callus. This is the most common variety. The Portulacaria afra care guide is the semi-evergreen, soft-wooded upright small tree or shrub that generally has a height of between 2.5 and 4.5 meters. Overwatering and poorly drained soil are the most common causes of death for rainbow portulacaria plants. Ensure that the container you choose has wide drainage holes. It grows best in arid, desert-like environments. Variegata- Petite variation with cream-colored leaf edges; the leaf is variegated. Be careful not to confuse the Elephant Bush Plant with the Jade Plant as they are strikingly similar. As succulents are low-maintenance plants that thrive in harsh climates, overwatering is a critical issue that can lead to root rot or even death. Here he is going to talk of styling and caring for Portulacaria afra, known as dwarf jade, or elephant bush because of its African origin.The dwarf jade is a small-leaf, succulent plant found in South Africa. Over the past decade, farmers in South Africa have found the combination of drought and rising temperatures due to climate change to be particularly challenging. The ideal time to feed your Rainbow Bush is in spring when the temperatures are at least 15C.