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Plant Profiles / Elephant bush
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Elephant bush
Portulacaria afra · Spekboom, dwarf jade
A succulent shrub with tiny round leaves on red-brown stems. Great as a bonsai, hedge or trailing pot plant.
Full sun to bright lightLight
Every 2 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun to bright light
ShadeFull sun
At least 4 hours of light.
Water
Every 2 weeks
DryWet
Water when dry.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry air.
Temperature
0–40°C (32–104°F)
CoolWarm
Light frost only.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
Grows 1–2 m in the ground, smaller in pots.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Free-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Twice a year
RarelyOften
Light feed in spring and summer.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Native to South Africa, spekboom is famous for its toughness. It can be shaped, clipped and grown upright or cascading.
Best spots
Sunny windowsills, balcony pots and dry gardens.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Portulacaria afra |
| Family | Didiereaceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Plant type | Succulent shrub |
| Mature size | 0.5–2 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Tiny pink |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Prune
Propagate
Fertilise
Water less
PrunePropagateFertiliseWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Leaf drop | Too dry or too dark. |
| Soft stems | Overwatering. |
| Leggy growth | More sun and pinch tips. |
| Mealybugs | Treat early. |
Common questions
Is it the same as jade?
No, it's a different plant.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
Can I make it a bonsai?
Yes, it's a classic choice.
Does it trail?
Some forms cascade.
