Portulacaria afra
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.
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
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.