Meet the charming Portulacaria afra, affectionately known as the “Elephant Bush” or “Baby Jade” - a delightful succulent that brings the classic appeal of jade plants in a more petite, faster-growing package. This South African native is beloved for its tiny, glossy leaves and tree-like growth habit that makes it perfect for both beginner plant parents and bonsai enthusiasts.
**Available Size:** 4” plants in landscape pots
Plant Characteristics:
Portulacaria Elephant Bush features small, round, glossy green leaves that are perfectly miniature versions of traditional jade plant foliage. The thick, succulent stems have a reddish-brown color that creates beautiful contrast against the bright green leaves. This plant naturally develops a tree-like structure with a thick trunk and branching habit, making it look like a tiny tree even when young. It’s a relatively fast grower for a succulent, quickly developing character and presence in your collection. The small leaves and compact growth make it an excellent choice for bonsai styling, desktop displays, or creating miniature landscape scenes.
Care Instructions:
- **Light:** Bright, indirect light to full sun; can tolerate direct sunlight better than many houseplants
- **Water:** Water deeply when soil is completely dry; very drought tolerant once established
- **Humidity:** Low humidity preferred; thrives in dry indoor conditions
- **Temperature:** Room temperature 65-85°F; can tolerate temperature fluctuations well
- **Soil:** Well-draining cactus or succulent mix; excellent drainage essential
- **Fertilizer:** Light feeding 2-3 times during growing season with cactus fertilizer
- **Pruning:** Pinch or trim to maintain desired shape; responds well to pruning for bonsai styling
Special Notes:
This plant earned its “Elephant Bush” name because it’s a favorite food of elephants in its native South Africa! It’s incredibly easy to propagate from cuttings and grows much faster than traditional jade plants. The plant can be shaped and styled like a bonsai tree, making it perfect for those interested in the art of miniature trees but wanting something more forgiving than traditional bonsai species.
Perfect for succulent collections, bonsai beginners, office environments, and anyone wanting a low-maintenance plant with tree-like character. Safe around pets and children.
Plant Purchase Information
Photos on our website serve as variety references to help you identify the type of plant you’re selecting. Each living plant is naturally unique, so your individual plant will have its own character while staying true to the variety you’ve chosen.
Your Plant May Vary In:
• Coloration and variegation patterns
• Overall fullness and size
• Bloom status (flowering plants may or may not be in bloom)
• Leaf shape and growth pattern
• Seasonal appearance
What You’ll Receive:
Your plant will arrive healthy and well-established in a standard greenhouse or landscape pot, ready for you to enjoy and care for. While it may look different from the reference photo, it will be the correct variety you ordered.
We select quality plants that truly represent each variety, and we’re excited for you to watch your unique plant flourish and develop its own personality in your care!
