Portulacaria afra
Elephant Bush / Spekboom
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Portulacaria afra, commonly known as Elephant Bush or Spekboom, is an easy-care succulent shrub with small, rounded, fleshy green leaves carried on reddish-brown stems. Its compact, branching growth gives it a miniature tree-like appearance that becomes increasingly characterful as the plant matures.
Native to southern Africa and neighbouring parts of eastern Africa, Portulacaria afra is naturally adapted to dry conditions and is an excellent choice for bright indoor spaces. In the wild it can form a substantial shrub, while indoors it stays far more manageable and responds well to light pruning and shaping.
If you're new to this fascinating plant, read our Portulacaria afra Care Guide for more detailed advice on watering, feeding, repotting and troubleshooting.
Light & Position
Prefers bright light and will appreciate some gentle direct sun. A bright windowsill is ideal. Plants kept in lower light may become more open and leggy, while stronger light encourages compact, sturdy growth.
Watering
Allow the compost to dry thoroughly between waterings, then water well and let excess water drain away. Portulacaria afra is drought-tolerant and much more at risk from overwatering than from occasional dryness. Water very sparingly during winter.
Temperature & Humidity
Prefers warm, dry indoor conditions and does not need high humidity. Keep away from cold draughts and prolonged damp conditions.
Feeding
Feed lightly during spring and summer with a balanced or cactus fertiliser at the recommended dilution while the plant is actively growing. Reduce or stop feeding during winter.
Pruning & Growth
Portulacaria afra naturally forms a branching shrub and can be trimmed to maintain a compact shape or encourage denser growth. Its small leaves and woody stems also make it popular for bonsai-style training.
Why You'll Love It
- Small, fleshy green leaves on attractive reddish stems
- Easy-care and highly drought-tolerant
- Develops an appealing miniature tree-like shape
- Excellent for sunny windowsills and bright rooms
- Easy to prune and shape
- A distinctive alternative to the classic Jade Plant
Plant Details
Nursery Pot Size: 10.5cm
Approximate Height: 18cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 12cm+
Pair your Spekboom with one of our decorative plant pots for the perfect display.
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Standard UK Delivery
Tracked delivery within 1–3 working days to most UK postcodes (excl. Northern Ireland).
Orders under £15 – £5.95
Orders £15–£34.99 – £4.95
Orders £35–£49.99 – £3.95
Orders £50+ – FREE
Local Hand Delivery (Edinburgh)
£8.95 flat rate. Monday–Friday delivery to EH1–EH22, EH28 and EH29. Select your delivery date at checkout. This service is for large plants, terrariums and fragile items.
Store Pickup
Free collection within 1 hour from our St Vincent Street shop (EH3 6SH).
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Care Instructions
Light
Prefers bright light and will happily tolerate direct sunshine. During the hottest part of summer, avoid prolonged scorching midday sun behind south-facing glass.
Water
Water thoroughly, then allow the compost to dry out completely before watering again. Water less during winter, allowing the compost to remain dry for longer.
Food
Feed once a month during spring and summer with a quality liquid plant food. There is no need to feed during winter.
Humidity
This plant thrives in normal household humidity and does not require misting or additional humidity.
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