Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’

Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’, commonly known as the Variegated Elephant Bush or Spekboom, is an easy-care succulent with small, rounded leaves patterned in soft green and creamy white. The foliage is carried on fine branching stems that can develop attractive reddish tones in bright light, giving the plant a fresh, delicate appearance.

Supplied in a 12cm nursery pot at approximately 20cm tall, it is a compact, bushy plant that looks particularly good on a sunny windowsill, shelf or desk. As it matures, the stems gradually become woody and the plant can develop into a wonderfully sculptural, almost bonsai-like specimen.

Light & Position

Give Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ plenty of bright light. It will happily tolerate some direct sunshine and good light helps maintain strong variegation, compact growth and attractive stem colouring.

A bright windowsill is ideal. During very hot summer weather, protect the plant from prolonged scorching midday sun through glass if necessary.

Watering

Water thoroughly, then allow the compost to dry out completely before watering again. Its fleshy leaves store moisture, so Elephant Bush copes much better with being kept slightly too dry than with consistently wet compost.

Water considerably less during autumn and winter when growth slows, and never allow the nursery pot to sit in standing water.

Humidity & Temperature

Portulacaria afra is well suited to normal indoor conditions and does not require high humidity or misting. Keep in a warm, bright position and away from cold draughts.

Feeding

Feed lightly during spring and summer while the plant is actively growing using a balanced liquid houseplant or succulent fertiliser. There is little need to feed during autumn and winter.

Growth & Care

Variegated Elephant Bush naturally develops a branching, shrubby habit and can be gently pruned to maintain a compact shape or encouraged to grow into a larger specimen. Its woody stems also make it particularly well suited to bonsai-style shaping.

Although it resembles a Jade Plant, Portulacaria afra is a different plant altogether and belongs to the Didiereaceae family.

Why You'll Love It

• Small green and creamy-white variegated leaves
• Attractive branching stems that can develop reddish tones
• Very drought tolerant and easy to care for
• Excellent for bright and sunny windowsills
• Can develop into a sculptural, bonsai-like specimen
• Compact 12cm plant that works well in smaller spaces

Pet & Child Safety

Portulacaria afra is generally regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs. As with any houseplant, however, it is best to discourage pets or young children from eating the foliage.

Plant Details

Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’
Common Name: Variegated Elephant Bush / Spekboom
Nursery Pot Size: 12cm
Approximate Height: Around 20cm
Fits Decorative Pot Size: 14cm
Growth Habit: Compact / branching
Position: Indoors