Portulacaria afra
Elephant's Food, Elephant Bush
Description
Interesting succulent with irregular growth habit. Depending on pruning and cold, elephant's food can be grown as a groundcover or shrub to 12' tall and wide. Plants work very well in containers, and can be used indoors or outdoors. Drought tolerant, but needs some protection from frost. Does best with some shade in most arid climates, otherwise tolerates full sun. Native to South Africa.
Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate, Slow
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems.
Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.