portulacaria afra elephant bush Shop 'Elephant bush - Portulacaria afra' Care and Info
SKU: 9256983179
portulacaria afra elephant bush

portulacaria afra elephant bush Shop 'Elephant bush - Portulacaria afra' Care and Info

Sale price$19.05 Regular price$21.17
Save 10%

Shipping Estimate
USA
  • USA
  • CAN

Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 9 - Jul 14

Promo Codes Available:

For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15

Description

portulacaria afra elephant bush Shop 'Elephant bush - Portulacaria afra' Care and InfoIntroducing the Elephant Bush, also known as Portulacaria afra, which is a fascinating and popular succulent garden plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Portulacaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and easy care requirements. The elephant bush succulent gets its name from its resemblance to the foliage of an elephant's trunk. It is also commonly referred to as the dwarf jade plant, small leaf jade, miniature jade, elephant

Introducing the Elephant Bush, also known as Portulacaria afra, which is a fascinating and popular succulent garden plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Portulacaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and easy-care requirements.

The elephant bush succulent gets its name from its resemblance to the foliage of an elephant's trunk. It is also commonly referred to as the dwarf jade plant, small leaf jade, miniature jade, elephant food, or the Spekboom. The name "Dwarf Jade Plant" comes from its small, jade-like leaves, while "Spekboom" is an Afrikaans term meaning "bacon tree" due to the plant's edible leaves that reportedly taste like bacon.


The elephant bush plant features small, round, and fleshy pale green leaves that store water, allowing your elephant bush plant to withstand drought conditions. 

The trailing stems of the elephant bush plants are thick and red-hued, which gives them a unique and appealing appearance in hanging baskets.

When grown as a houseplant, the elephant bush typically reaches a height of 1 to 3 feet.

However, if planted outdoors in its native habitat, your Portulacaria afra can grow much larger, reaching heights of up to 20 feet. The elephant bush makes for an excellent bonsai due to its unique growth pattern and ability to withstand pruning. Its thick, fleshy leaves and sturdy branches give it a robust appearance, making it an ideal succulent for shaping into intricate bonsai designs. 

The elephant bush flowers are small, star-shaped, and usually a light pink or lavender color. While the flowers are not the main attraction of this elephant bush succulent, they can add a touch of beauty when they bloom during the spring to late summer.

The elephant bush Portulacaria afra comes in various varieties, including a slow-growing variegated form Portulacaria afra variegata; a trailing growth bush Portulacaria afra prostrata; and a midstripe rainbow bush Portulacaria afra medio-picta, offers a diverse range of beauty in green spaces.

When and How to Water Your Elephant Bush

Like other drought-tolerant jade plants, your elephant bush succulent prefers a watering routine that allows the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can harm the elephant bush plant and cause root rot.

In the summer, during the growing season, you should water elephant bush succulents once or twice a month when the soil is dry. A good rule of thumb is to water this elephant plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. In the winter, during the dormant period,  you probably do not need to water them at all. 

Remember, it's always better to underwater than to overwater the elephant bush plant. This resilient Portulacaria afra plant can tolerate drought conditions better than excessive moisture. So, keep an eye on the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Elephant Bush Plant

When growing the elephant bush indoors, it thrives in bright, indirect light. Place your elephant bush plant near a window where it can receive plenty of natural bright light, but make sure to avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

If you notice the leaves turning yellow or getting scorched, it's a sign that the Portulacaria afra elephant bush is receiving too much direct sunlight. So, finding that sweet spot of bright, indirect light is key to keeping your elephant bush succulent plant happy indoors.

If you decide to grow your elephant bush outdoors, it loves basking in the full sun. Although partial shade in the afternoon is frequently preferred, these plants need at least six hours of strong light each day to survive.

This is true, especially in hotter climates where the plant may become stressed by the afternoon sun's intense heat.

Your succulents should not be placed in any areas that receive continuous, direct sunlight, as this could lead to burned foliage.

Remember, the elephant bush is a versatile succulent plant and can adapt to different light conditions. Just keep in mind that it prefers bright, indirect light indoors and full sun to partial shade outdoors.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

Elephant succulents are very airy, porous, nutrient-rich well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5- 6.5; succulents require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil.  Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your African elephant bush plant to thrive.   

When it comes to fertilizing your elephant bush plant, it only needs a small amount of fertilizer applied once a year in spring. These succulents prefer a fertilizer with lower doses of NPK, with a maximum ratio of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen.

Hardiness Zones & More 

When it comes to growing the Elephant Bush plant indoors, the Elephant Bush prefers a cozy environment with temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it's best to avoid extreme cold or frost. If you notice the leaves starting to shrivel or the tips turning brown, it may be a sign that the air is too dry. You can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near the plant or using a humidifier.

If you are living in USDA zones 9-11, you can grow your Elephant Bush plant outdoors year-round. These zones have mild temperatures and are less prone to frost.  

In cooler zones, it can be kept outdoors during the summer and brought in as the temperature drops. 

Elephant Bush can handle average to slightly higher humidity levels outdoors. Just make sure to provide well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged conditions, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.

Don't worry if your succulents become too hot; they can tolerate triple-digit temperatures in the summer and prefer constant temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Wildlife - Portulacaria afra Attracts the Following Friendly Pollinators

Portulacaria afra have tiny, star-shaped flowers, which bloom in clusters, and are a magnet for friendly pollinators. Bees are particularly drawn to its nectar-rich blooms, while butterflies and other beneficial insects are also frequent visitors. In areas where it thrives outdoors, hummingbirds may be attracted to the vibrant blossoms as well. 

Butterflies
Bees
Hummingbirds
Lady Bugs
Multi Pollinators
Other Birds

According to ASPCA, the Portulacaria afra Elephant Bush is friendly to both humans and pets such as dogs and cats. This makes it a great choice for households with curious pets or small children.

How to Propagate Your Portulacaria afra

This African elephant bush is relatively easy to propagate. It can be grown from stem cuttings, which should be allowed to dry for a day or two before being planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings usually root quickly and can be grown into new, young plants.

Key Takeaways

  1. Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra) is a fantastic succulent with small, jade-like leaves.
  2. Visually appealing and easy to care for, adaptable for both indoor and outdoor growth.
  3. Tolerates a wide range of warm temperatures, between 65°F and 75°F, and handles higher humidity levels.
  4. It can thrives in bright, indirect light. It is suitable for beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts alike.
  5. Often grown as a seasonal accent plant or houseplant.
  6. Order your Elephant Bush today and add something truly exceptional to your garden.

The Bottom Line

Overall, Portulacaria afra, or Elephant Bush, is a remarkable plant that combines beauty, resilience, and ecological value. Its succulent, jade-like leaves and sprawling growth make it a striking addition to both indoor and outdoor settings, while its ability to tolerate drought and thrive in poor soils underscores its low-maintenance appeal. This plant’s capacity to attract friendly pollinators such as bees and butterflies further enhances its value in promoting biodiversity. With minimal care—bright, indirect light, well-draining soil, occasional watering, and protection from frost—Portulacaria afra can flourish for years, serving as both a stunning decorative element and an eco-friendly choice for any garden or home.

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 9256983179

Discover Niche Categories That Outsell portulacaria afra elephant bush

Top-Converting Item to Boost Your Average Order

4.8 ★★★★★
Based on 1312 reviews
Sort
Highest Rating
Newest First
Oldest First
Product Reviews
L
Verified Purchase
Lil
Charlottesville, US
★★★★★ 5
Amazing quality and well worth it!!!
Color: Black
Great watch! My son saw his friend have and was impressed so I got him one! This one doesn’t have a connection point from the band to the watch so it can’t break there which has been the issues with all his other watches. This is easy to setup and use! It worked so great that I got one for my other son! They both say the size and options are perfect! Highly recommend!
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on January 14, 2026
E
Verified Purchase
Evan
Houston, US
★★★★★ 5
Great classic timepiece
Color: Black/Digital Gray/Silver-Tone, Color: Black/Digital Gray/Silver-Tone
I’ve been using the Timex Men’s Ironman Triathlon Classic 30 (38mm) for a while now, and it’s easily one of the most dependable watches I’ve owned. The design is simple but functional — lightweight, comfortable, and perfect for workouts, outdoor activities, or just daily wear. The Indiglo backlight is super bright and makes it easy to read in the dark, and the buttons are responsive without feeling flimsy. The stopwatch and countdown timer features are straightforward and accurate, which I really appreciate for timing workouts. I also like that it’s water-resistant, so I never have to worry about it in the rain or while swimming. The 38mm size is just right — not too bulky, but still sporty and easy to read. The battery life is excellent, and the Timex durability definitely shows; this watch can take a beating and still look good. If you want something rugged, affordable, and practical, the Ironman Classic 30 is a solid choice. It’s a no-nonsense watch that does exactly what it’s supposed to — and does it well.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on November 2, 2025
K
Verified Purchase
kone
Lowell, US
★★★★★ 5
Lightweight, Options, and Ease of Use Make this a Great Watch
Color: Black
I have purchased many Timex watches over the years and I am entirely satisfied with this watch. I always buy the sports watch, as I swim and do triathlons. Things I like about the watch: *Setting the watch is easy and the instructions are clear (although the printed instructions are very small!) * The watch is not too big. So many watches have too many features and they are large, bulky, and heavy. This watch is sleek, has a low profile, and has a size that is ideal for average needs. * The numbers are big enough to see easily at a glance. * There are enough useful options, and this watch is not overloaded with too many options. Too many options are confusing to me. I like the simplicity of this watch and the ease of use of the options it has. * I like the plastic watch band. I have tried the velcro strap bands and they wear out after a year or so of use. The plastic band will eventually break, but is fairly easy to replace. * I like the price. At less than 35 dollars I have everything I need in a watch. * I like and use frequently the Indiglo feature. I have even used Indiglo to find my way to the bathroom at night from bed! The light on the dial is bright enough to make your way through the dark for a short trip! Things I don't like: There is not much I don't like about this Timex watch. I suppose my biggest complaint about this watch and any Timex watch is the difficulty in changing the battery. The battery will eventually need replacement, and of course one has to take off the back of the watch to replace the battery. This is tricky and takes a steady hand. I wish Timex would make the battery more accessible so changing the battery would be as easy as sliding one in or out of a hinged door (like on a hearing aid). Obviously, there is much more to like about this watch than not like. I do recommend it for a good sport watch. It will withstand chlorine pools, lake water, rainfall, high and low temperatures, but be careful not to scratch the dial window! I scratched the main window crystal and ruined my last watch. Avoid spraying any kind of bug repellant on the window as well, as this can mar (dull) the surface. For me, this watch meets all my needs and I give it a 5-star rating. My needs are faily simple. There are certainly other watches that offer more features, but to me, the added features add complexity and are not worth the added bother. The price is good. The watch is good quality. This is a good buy. Jim "Konedog" Koenig
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 23, 2008
E
Verified Purchase
EoE
Waukegan, US
★★★★★ 4
Great watch; but why the triangle screws?
Color: Black/Digital Gray/Silver-Tone
I have been using these watches for many years with very good luck, and would normally give them 5 stars. They are comfortable, waterproof, durable, and have an alarm and a countdown timer. (The waterproof and countdown timer - that can be set to repeat - make them good for sailboat racing, and these are much cheaper than sailing watches. ) But at some point before the watch breaks, the battery will die. It is not hard to replace the battery. Except now the watch comes with triangle head screws holding the back on, rather than the regular phillips head screws they used to have. Why? Is it that important to keep people from opening up their watch? Making things harder to fix is a step in the wrong direction. Knocking off one star for that.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2025
L
Verified Purchase
L Chance Correll
Boise, US
★★★★★ 5
Still the champ.
Color: Black/Negative Digital/Gray, Color: Black/Negative Digital/Gray
I absolutely LOVE my Casio GBA800 that I have bully bars on, so she's quite huge. Analog with Bluetooth, pretty cool. If I ever remember to use such things. I have a phone and laptop on me usually, why do I need to play with my watch? I want to tell time, that's it. Comes along a good sale for an Ironman, and I used to be a complete fanatic for only Ironman for a real person's needs. Why not, I've been fighting the Casio all day with my coat cuff, let's get something a bit slimmer for when it's coat season. See if they're still great. Yup! Sure is. It's been probably 25 years ago last time I wore this style of Timex, and can you believe the button setup and beeps are all still the same as way back when! And somehow, my subconscious remembers the button presses. Wild. This thing is light as a feather, and I got the inverse LCD for fun, which is cool as all get out, but takes some getting used to. The Indiglo sure looks awesome, though, and she's like Knight Rider down there. Stealth. The display is big, and easy even for my old eyes, the band is supremely comfortable, and there's a strap catch that actually works correctly! With no Bluetooth, battery life should be outstanding - always used to be. Back when watch batteries were like $12 each. There goes my allowance! Lol. I'm very impressed by this timepiece. I really didn't mean to order order it, but, oh well. I love it as much as my Casio. Affordable tough watches rock!
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on January 21, 2025

recommand products