Elephant Bush & relatives · 1 genus covered · 3 varieties
Portulacaria afra is frequently confused with the jade plant (Crassula ovata) at retail. Both have small, rounded, succulent leaves on branching woody stems. The practical distinction is size, speed, and stem colour: Portulacaria has smaller, rounder, more uniformly green leaves on red-brown stems and grows considerably faster than jade, tolerating more direct light and more drought along the way. It is widely used in bonsai for its fast growth and ability to develop a characterful aged trunk quickly relative to most bonsai species. Non-toxic to cats and dogs, and one of the most forgiving succulents available.
Small, rounded, bright to mid-green leaves on distinctive red-brown stems. Fast-growing relative to most succulents. Portulacaria fills its pot and needs repotting far more often than the visually similar jade plant (Crassula ovata) it's commonly confused with at retail. More light-tolerant than jade, accepting some direct indoor sun without scorching, and considerably more drought-tolerant. Widely used in bonsai for its fast growth, small leaves, and ability to develop a characterful aged trunk relatively quickly. Tolerates heavy pruning and reshaping well, making it forgiving for growers experimenting with bonsai techniques for the first time.
Detailed CareCream and green variegated leaves on the same red-brown stems as the standard species. Slower growing than plain afra, as the variegation reduces overall vigour, as is typical for variegated succulents. Requires slightly more light than the plain species to maintain crisp cream markings; in lower light the variegation softens and becomes less distinct. Otherwise identical care to standard afra, including the same drought tolerance and bonsai suitability.
ToxicityA central cream stripe runs down each leaf against a green ground, a different variegation pattern from the marginal cream of 'Variegata'. Similar care requirements to 'Variegata', including the same need for slightly more light to maintain crisp markings. Less commonly available than the standard 'Variegata' form, making it a worthwhile find for collectors seeking variety within the genus.
Toxicity