Product Overview
Portulacaria Afra – Elephant Bush.
Often referred to as the Miniature Jade Tree, it`s not actually related to Crassula Ovata, the Jade Tree.
An interesting branching succulent native to South Africa, where it is a natural food source for elephants and other animals, as well as being used to add a sour flavour to salads, stews, and soups in South African cuisine.
The fleshy, pad shaped leaves, and bark look stem make this a popular easy care plant to Bonsai.
Although not a hardy plant Portulacaria can tolerate very cool conditions, and can be kept outdoors for all but the coldest times of year.
Follow these tips for success.
Best kept in full sun or bright light, just be careful of extreme Summer sun.
As with most succulent types it`s best to adopt the ` soak and dry` approach. Water well then allow the compost to dry thoroughly before watering again.
Fertilise with a specific Cacti and Succulent feed as per instructions.
Cool to warm room temperatures, anywhere between 10-26c
In Winter reduce the amount and frequency of water.
Do not feed.
Minimum Temp: 5c
Aftercare:
Prune regularly to encourage a bushier habit, regular trimming will produce back-budding, the formation of multiple sets of new leaves, and will greatly improve the look.
Repot in Spring using good quality free draining Cacti & Succulent compost, and only a slightly larger pot.
Easy to propagate by stem cuttings. Take a section of stem with several leaves, remove with a sharp sterile knife, allow to callus over for several days then pot in to free draining, gritty compost. Water lightly and the cutting should root in a few weeks.
Warnings:
Not known to be toxic.
