Elephant's Food, Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra)

Elephant's Food, Elephant Bush
Scientific Name: Portulacaria afra Jacq.
Family: Portulacaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 8,9,12-27
USDA: 10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 30°F ( -1°C)
Heat Tolerance: Can take full sun in summer in Phoenix
Sun Exposure: Any exposure
Origin: South Africa
Growth Habits: Small tree or succulent shrub to 12 feet tall
Watering Needs: Moderate to little water, very drought resistant
Propagation: Cuttings

Portulacaria afra is a good plant for the Phoenix area, you can grow it in pot with full sun part of the day in summer, water it every 2 weeks and it will look fine (of course it does better if you show more consideration). It can also be used to make outstanding bonsais, like the one in the second picture taken at "The Boojum Tree" here in Phoenix.

Elephant's Food, Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra)

Blooming Habits:
The pink flowers are seldom seen outside the wild.

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