Portulacaria afra |
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Elephant's Food |
Description
Interesting succulent that sprawls to 3' x 4' at a moderate rate. Depending on pruning and cold, elephant's food can be grown as a groundcover or small shrub. Accepts full sun to partial shade but does best with some shade in most desert areas. Plants work very well in containers, and can be used indoors or outdoors. Adapted to many different conditions. Rarely flowers. Needs some protection from frost. Native to South Africa.
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Anatomy
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Sun/Water
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Design
Plant Type
Shrub, Ground cover, Succulent
Height Range
3-6'
Flower Color
Pink
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Japanese, Mediterranean, Spanish, Tropical, Water Garden
Accenting Features
Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
n/a
Location Uses
Entry, Perennial Border, Indoor, Patio, Raised Planter, Swimming Pool, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Cascade, Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Small Spaces, Hanging Baskets
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.