Elephant Bush

Portulacaria afra (Elephant Bush) is a succulent shrub native to South Africa, where it forms a major component of the diet of elephants and other large herbivores. In cultivation, it is valued for its small, rounded, glossy leaves on reddish-brown stems, which over time develop a thick, woody trunk suited to bonsai training. Container plants typically reach 30–100 cm; outdoor specimens can exceed 200 cm. The species is exceptionally robust and among the easiest succulents to grow, tolerating a wide range of conditions. It has attracted interest as an environmentally beneficial plant due to its reportedly high capacity for carbon sequestration. Bright light and well-draining soil suit it best; watering two to three times monthly is sufficient. Cold tolerance extends to approximately 0–5°C. Stem cuttings root reliably. A variegated form with cream-margined leaves is also widely grown.

Moderate watering