Elephant Bush

Portulacaria afra

Native to:
Eswatini, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Didiereaceae
Genus:
Portulacaria
Species:
Portulacaria afra
USDA Symbol:
POAF

Growth Characteristics

Height:
400 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug
Bloom Colors:
pink
Evergreen Shrub:
Yes
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid, rocky regions

Propagation & Germination

Notes:
Seeds germinate readily in warm conditions without pretreatment.