Elephant Bush Succulent Green (Portulacaria Afra) 4”pot

This succulent can sometimes be referred to as the "mini jade" plant, but unlike the traditional jade succulent (Crassula), Portulacaria is non-toxic for most housepets. Interestingly, in its native habitat of South Africa, it serves as a vital food source for elephants and other wildlife. 

The Portulacaria's small, rounded, leaves grow along reddish-brown stems, creating a lush, bonsai-like appearance. This plant is excellent for succulent gardens, bonsai projects, and as a houseplant due to its drought-tolerant nature. Its manageable growth rate makes it perfect for smaller spaces. It has a bushy and upright growth habit that can be pruned to stay compact.

CARE:

• Does best with bright, indirect light. For optimal growth and vibrant foliage, place it near a south- or west-facing window. A few hours of direct morning or late afternoon sun is beneficial. It can tolerate direct afternoon sunlight but gradually acclimate the plant to avoid leaf scorch.
• Allow the soil to dry out before watering. Do not keep the soil soggy as this will quickly lead to rot.
• When repotting, a well-draining gritty potting mix is recommended.
• Portulacaria can be prone to acclimatization shock if there’s a sudden change in its environment. It's best to keep it in a warm, consistent environment and avoid abrupt temperature shifts to cold drafts or intense heat which can stress the plant.