Portulacaria afra Care Guide: Elephant Bush & Spekboom Plant Care
What is Portulacaria afra?
Portulacaria afra, commonly known as Elephant Bush or Spekboom, is one of the easiest succulent houseplants to grow indoors. Native to South Africa, this fascinating plant stores water in its thick leaves, making it incredibly drought tolerant and forgiving.
In the wild, Portulacaria afra is a favourite food source for elephants, which is how it earned its common name. It can grow into large shrubs in its natural habitat, but indoors it remains a compact, attractive houseplant with glossy green foliage and attractive red stems.
We regularly stock Portulacaria afra in our Edinburgh shop and online. If it's currently unavailable, use the 'Notify Me When Available' button on the product page and we'll let you know when fresh stock arrives.
Looking for an easy-care houseplant?
Browse our Easy Care Houseplants collection for more low-maintenance favourites.
How to Care for Portulacaria afra Indoors
Portulacaria afra is one of the most forgiving houseplants you can own, provided you avoid overwatering.
Light
Bright light is essential. Position your plant close to a sunny window where it receives plenty of natural daylight.
The more light it receives, the stronger and more compact the growth will be.
Top tip: a south-facing or west-facing window is often ideal.
Watering
Like most succulents, Portulacaria afra prefers to dry out completely between waterings.
Always check the compost before watering. If it still feels damp, leave it a little longer.
During winter, watering should be reduced significantly as the plant's growth slows and the compost takes longer to dry.
Good to know: overwatering is the most common cause of problems with Portulacaria afra.
Humidity
Unlike tropical houseplants, Portulacaria afra prefers dry air and does not require misting.
Average household humidity levels are perfectly adequate.
Feeding
Feed every four weeks during spring and summer using a quality liquid fertiliser such as Liquid Gold Leaf.
There is generally no need to feed during autumn and winter when growth naturally slows.
You can browse our full Indoor Plant Care collection for feeds, compost and houseplant essentials.
Repotting Portulacaria afra
Portulacaria afra should only be repotted when it has clearly outgrown its current container.
Signs that repotting may be required include:
- Roots emerging from drainage holes
- The plant drying out unusually quickly
- Roots densely circling the pot
- The plant becoming top-heavy
Most houseplants are best repotted during spring and summer. If you're unsure, read our guide to repotting houseplants.
Choose a pot with drainage holes and move up only one pot size at a time.
For best results, use a free-draining succulent compost. We recommend using products from our Soil Ninja collection to create a gritty, free-draining mix suitable for succulents.
Common Portulacaria afra Problems
Yellow Leaves
Yellow leaves are usually caused by excess moisture around the roots.
Allow the compost to dry thoroughly and review your watering routine.
Soft or Mushy Stems
Mushy stems almost always indicate overwatering or root rot.
Remove affected stems, allow the compost to dry completely and move the plant to a brighter position.
Leggy Growth
If the stems become stretched with large gaps between leaves, your plant probably needs more light.
Move it closer to a bright window to encourage more compact growth.
Leaf Drop
Occasional leaf drop can occur after environmental changes, particularly if the plant has recently been moved or overwatered.
Check light levels and watering before making any drastic changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Portulacaria afra easy to care for?
Yes. Portulacaria afra is one of the easiest succulents to grow indoors and is ideal for beginners.
How often should I water Portulacaria afra?
Only water when the compost has dried completely. This may be every couple of weeks in summer and much less frequently in winter.
Does Portulacaria afra need direct sunlight?
It enjoys bright light and can tolerate some direct sun, particularly during the morning or afternoon.
Can Portulacaria afra be grown as bonsai?
Absolutely. Its woody stems and small leaves make it one of the most popular succulent bonsai species.
Is Portulacaria afra pet friendly?
Portulacaria afra is generally considered non-toxic, although it's always sensible to discourage pets from chewing houseplants.
Ready to Grow Your Own Elephant Bush?
Portulacaria afra is an attractive, drought-tolerant houseplant that combines easy care with fascinating history and beautiful growth.
Browse our Portulacaria afra (Spekboom) and discover why this remarkable South African succulent has become such a favourite with plant lovers around the world.