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Portulacaria afra

Elephant's Food

Plant photo of: Portulacaria afra
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Information by: Kathleen Moore        Photographer: Mountain States Nursery

 

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.

 

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:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.