Portulacaria afra

AED 40.00 – AED 60.00

Portulacaria afra, commonly known as elephant bush or spekboom, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is highly regarded for its attractive appearance and adaptability, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.

Growth Habit: Elephant bush can grow as a dense shrub or small tree, typically reaching heights of 1 to 3 meters (3 to 10 feet). Its thick, fleshy stems are capable of storing water, which helps it thrive in arid conditions.
Leaves: The leaves are small, round, and fleshy, ranging in color from bright green to reddish-green. Their compact size and shape contribute to the plant’s overall lush appearance.
Flowers: In the summer, it produces small, pink or purple flowers that appear in clusters, attracting pollinators such as bees.

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SKU: 654654 Categories: Flowering plants, Outdoor Plants Tag: Portulacaria afra

Estimated delivery dates: Dec 6, 2024 - Dec 7, 2024

Portulacaria afra commonly known as **elephant bush** or **spekboom**, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. This hardy, drought-resistant shrub is valued for its ornamental appeal and ecological benefits.

### Characteristics of Portulacaria afra

– **Appearance**: Elephant bush features thick, fleshy stems and small, rounded leaves that can vary in color from green to reddish-green, depending on the light and environmental conditions. It can grow up to 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) tall in optimal conditions, but it is often kept smaller in gardens.
– **Flowers**: The plant produces small, pink or purple flowers, typically appearing in clusters during the summer months. While the flowers are not particularly showy, they attract pollinators such as bees.

### Uses

– **Ornamental**: Portulacaria afra is popular in gardens and landscapes, especially in xeriscaping and rock gardens, due to its attractive foliage and low maintenance requirements.
– **Ecological**: This plant plays a significant role in carbon sequestration, making it a valuable addition to efforts aimed at combating climate change. It can improve soil quality and prevent erosion.
– **Culinary**: In some cultures, the leaves are consumed as a vegetable or used to add flavor to dishes. They are often eaten raw in salads or cooked.

### Care and Cultivation

– **Light**: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
– **Watering**: As a succulent, it requires infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
– **Soil**: Prefers well-draining soil; a cactus mix or sandy loam is ideal.

### Propagation

Portulacaria afra can be easily propagated from cuttings, making it a popular choice for home gardeners.

Overall, Portulacaria afra is a resilient and attractive plant, suitable for various climates and gardening styles, offering both aesthetic and ecological benefits.

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