Contents
Description
Portulacaria Fruticulosa, also known as Elephant Bush or Dwarf Jade, is a small succulent shrub belonging to the Didiereaceae family. It is native to South Africa, particularly in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall in its natural habitat, but when grown as a houseplant, it usually reaches a maximum height of 3 feet. Its stems are thick, fleshy, and brownish-red, while its leaves are small, round, and green. The plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Didiereaceae |
| Genus | Portulacaria |
Appearance
Portulacaria Fruticulosa has small, round, and green leaves that grow in clusters along its reddish-brown stems. Its leaves are about 1/2 inch long and 1/4 inch wide, and they are slightly concave on the upper surface and convex on the lower surface. The leaves are also succulent, meaning they store water, making the plant drought-tolerant. The plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers that bloom in clusters during the summer, but they are not particularly showy.
Care Guide
Water
Portulacaria Fruticulosa prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom. During the summer months, you can water the plant once a week, but in the winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Fertilize Portulacaria Fruticulosa once a month during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength, and apply it to the soil. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to burnt leaves.
Soil
Portulacaria Fruticulosa prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand works well. Avoid using heavy clay soils, which can lead to root rot.
Sunlight
Portulacaria Fruticulosa prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but avoid exposing it to intense afternoon sun, which can scorch its leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Portulacaria Fruticulosa is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11, but it can also be grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Portulacaria Fruticulosa is generally pest-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, inspect the plant regularly and remove any pests by wiping them off with a damp cloth or spraying the plant with a mild insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in heavy soil.
Habitat
Portulacaria Fruticulosa is native to South Africa, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions. It is commonly found in rocky outcrops and dry scrublands. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water by storing it in its succulent leaves.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Portulacaria Fruticulosa toxic to pets?
A: No, Portulacaria Fruticulosa is not toxic to pets.
Q: How often should I prune my Portulacaria Fruticulosa?
A: Prune your Portulacaria Fruticulosa once a year, in the spring, to control its shape and size.
Q: Can I propagate Portulacaria Fruticulosa from cuttings?
A: Yes, Portulacaria Fruticulosa can be easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a day or two, then plant them in well-draining soil and water sparingly until they root.
Q: How often should I repot my Portulacaria Fruticulosa?
A: Repot your Portulacaria Fruticulosa every two to three years, or when it outgrows its current pot. Use a slightly larger pot and fresh soil.
Related Plants
- Portulacaria Afra
- Portulacaria Afra Variegata
- Portulacaria Afra Aurea
- Portulacaria Afra Macrophylla
References
- “Portulacaria fruticulosa.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/portulacaria-fruticulosa
- “Elephant Bush (Portulacaria Afra).” The Spruce, Dotdash, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/growing-portulacaria-afra-1902988
- “Portulacaria fruticulosa.” World of Succulents, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/portulacaria-fruticulosa-elephant-bush/
