Elephant Bush Plant Care
Portulacaria afra Jacq.
Portulacaria afra is a small-leaved succulent plant found in South Africa. These succulents commonly have a reddish stem and green leaves, but a variegated cultivar is often seen in cultivation.
Every 14–21 days
Full sun to partial shade
50–85°F
30–60%
What Is the Elephant Bush?
Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra) belongs to the Didiereaceae family within the Portulacaria genus. Elephant Bush is native to South Africa. Elephant Bush is also known as Spekboom, Porkbush, Dwarf Jade Plant.
Elephant Bush displays a low-growing, spreading succulent growth habit, reaching up to 1.5 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Elephant Bush produces small pink or white star-shaped flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 1 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Elephant Bush?
Portulacaria afra requires watering every 14–21 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 14–21 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Elephant Bush Need?
Elephant Bush thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Elephant Bush in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Elephant Bush Prefer?
Portulacaria afra grows best at temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. Elephant Bush prefers humidity levels of 30–60%.
Temperature
50–85°F
Humidity
30–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Elephant Bush?
Sandy, well-draining soil mix with added perlite for extra drainage. Good drainage is essential for Elephant Bush to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Elephant Bush?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Elephant Bush?
Elephant Bush can be propagated through stem cuttings, leaf cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Elephant Bush Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Elephant Bush?
Elephant Bush is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Elephant Bush Need?
Elephant Bush grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 12b. Native to South Africa, Elephant Bush is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Elephant Bush as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10a – 12b
Keep exploring plants
Elephant Bush is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Portulacaria genus — compare its care with other Portulacaria species on PlantoScan.
Elephant Bush tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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