Portulacaria afra (Elephant Bush)

A popular succulent garden plant around the world, Portulacaria afra (Elephant Bush) is a well-branched, evergreen succulent shrub or small tree with small, rounded, fleshy, emerald green leaves. is an ideal plant for beginners and experienced gardeners alike due to its hardy nature and minimal care requirements. Its environmental benefits and versatility in usage make it a valuable addition to any plant collection.

Portulacaria afra – Elephant Bush: An In-depth Look

Portulacaria afra, commonly known as Elephant Bush or Spekboom, is a versatile and robust succulent characterized by its thick, woody stems and small, glossy green leaves. The leaves are rounded and plump, resembling a miniature jade plant. The branches spread widely, giving the plant a bushy, lush appearance.

Native: This plant is native to South Africa, where it thrives in arid environments and plays a crucial role in local ecosystems. It belongs to the Didiereaceae family.

Plant Type and Habit: Elephant Bush is a well-branched, succulent shrub that can also take on a tree-like form with age. It grows with a spreading habit and is often used in bonsai.

Size: In its natural habitat, Portulacaria afra can grow up to 8-12 feet tall (2.4 to 3.6 meters) and 4-6 feet wide (1.2 to 1.8 meters), but when grown in gardens outside its native range, it typically remains much smaller, around 3-6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters).

Flowers: Clusters of tiny starry white or pale pink flowers bloom in profusion at the stem tips in late spring or early summer. Fairly inconspicuous, they are a rich nectar source for many insects and attract insectivorous birds. However, the blossoms are rarely produced in cultivation.

Foliage: The small, rounded leaves are plump and rich green. They are borne on brittle, fleshy red stems and tapering branches that mature to a gray color.

Hardiness: Portulacaria afra is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11. It is heat-tolerant but not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 30°F (-1°C).

Uses: Elephant Bush is widely used in xeriscaping, as an ornamental garden plant, for bonsai, in hanging baskets, and as a potted houseplant. In frost-free areas, Elephant Bush can also be used as an informal hedge or screen.

Its ability to absorb carbon dioxide at a high rate also makes it valuable for carbon sequestration efforts. A stand of Elephant Bush is reported to have the ability to remove more carbon from the atmosphere than an equal amount of deciduous forest.

The foliage is edible and commonly eaten in southern Africa in salads or soups to add a sour flavor.

Wildlife: In its native environment, it provides 80 percent of the elephant diet, earning the name “Elephant Bush.” It also supports various other wildlife species.

Toxicity: Portulacaria afra is non-toxic to humans and pets, making it safe for indoor environments.

Deer and Rabbits: It has a good level of resistance to browsing by deer and rabbits, likely due to its succulent nature, which makes it less appealing than softer, leafier plants.

Drought: Highly drought-tolerant, it is an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and can survive long periods without water once established.

Invasiveness: Elephant Bush is not considered invasive in the regions where it is commonly cultivated. It grows well without overtaking native species.

Benefits: Its dense growth habit makes it effective at providing ground cover and preventing soil erosion. Additionally, it’s known for its exceptional carbon-storing capabilities, which contribute positively to reducing greenhouse gases.

Elephant Bush: How to Grow and Care

Light: Elephant Bush thrives in bright, indirect light but can also adapt to direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn yellow or red at the tips. When growing indoors, place it near a south-facing window where it gets plenty of light. If the light is too low, the stems may become leggy and weak.

Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix to prevent root rot. The ideal soil should include components like perlite, sand, or gravel to enhance drainage.

Water: Watering is crucial for Elephant Bush care. During the growing season (spring and summer), water the plant thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. In the winter, reduce watering significantly to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Temperature and Humidity: Elephant Bush prefers warmer temperatures and does not tolerate frost. Keep it in temperatures above 30°F (-1°C). While it can handle dry air, it thrives in a more humid environment, particularly when grown indoors.
Potted plants can be moved outside for the growing season after all danger of frost has passed. Move them back indoors when night temperatures drop below 40ºF (4ºC).

Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer once every month during the growing season. Do not fertilize in the winter when the plant’s growth naturally slows.

Pruning: Prune in the spring to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Elephant Bush can become quite leggy if not pruned regularly. Use clean, sharp scissors to make cuts just above a leaf node.

Propagation: Elephant Bush is easily propagated by stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem, let it dry for a day or two to form a callus, and then plant it in moist succulent soil mix.

Elephant Bush: Common Problems

Elephant Bush is generally an easy plant to care for, but it can face several common problems, especially under less than ideal care conditions. Recognizing and addressing these issues promptly can help keep your Elephant Bush healthy and thriving.

Overwatering

• Symptoms: The most common issue with Elephant Bush is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Signs include soft, mushy stems or leaves and a general appearance of wilting or discoloration.
• Solution: Ensure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out completely between watering sessions. If root rot has set in, you may need to remove the affected parts and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

Underwatering

• Symptoms: While drought-tolerant, under-watering can cause the leaves to shrivel and drop off.
• Solution: Increase watering frequency, ensuring the soil is thoroughly but infrequently watered. The top inch of soil should feel dry before you water again.

Sunburn

• Symptoms: Leaves that turn white or very pale and dry out could be sunburned, particularly if the plant was suddenly moved to a much sunnier location.
• Solution: Gradually acclimate the Elephant Bush to brighter light conditions. If the plant is outdoors, consider providing some shade during the hottest part of the day.

Pest Infestations

• Common Pests: Mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids can be a problem, especially when the plant is stressed.
• Solution: Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations. Regularly inspecting the plant and maintaining good health can help prevent pests.

Nutritional Deficiencies

• Symptoms: Stunted growth or leaves that lose their vibrant green color could indicate a lack of nutrients.
• Solution: Feed the plant with a diluted, balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer), but avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the plant.

Cold Damage

• Symptoms: Blackened or mushy leaves can occur if the plant is exposed to freezing temperatures.
• Solution: Elephant Bush is not frost-tolerant. If temperatures are expected to drop near freezing, bring outdoor plants indoors or provide some form of frost protection.

Leggy Growth

• Symptoms: Long, stretched stems with sparse leaves are typically a sign of insufficient light.
• Solution: Move the plant to a brighter location where it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight or supplement with grow lights if indoors.