Elephant Bush Plant
Elephant Bush (Portulacaria afra) is a succulent growing 3-5 feet tall, hardy in USDA zones 10-11, with fast growth in well-drained, sandy soil, requiring full sun and low moisture, and it is neither edible nor medicinal.
Habit
Succulent
Height
1.0-1.5 m
Growth
Fast
Soil
Well-drained, sandy
Shade
Full sun
Moisture
Low
Edible
No
Medicinal
No
Origin
South Africa
Climatic Condition
Arid to Semi-arid
Temperature (°)
15-30°C
Humidity (%)
30-50%
Potting media
Cactus mix
Fertilizers
Balanced fertilizer
Watering
Water sparingly; drought-tolerant once established
Plant Weight
1-2 kg
Flowering Time
Year-round
Soil Ph level
6.0 - 7.5
Water Ph level
6.0 - 7.0
Soil EC
0.4 - 0.6
Yield Per Plant
Ornamental use
NPK ratio
10:10:10
life Span
Perennial
Health Benefits
Used for ornamental purposes; water-storing
Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?
40% cactus mix, 30% perlite, 30% sand
Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers
Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Common Diseases and Remedies
Root Rot, Leaf Spot, Powdery Mildew, Aphids, Mealybugs
Improve soil drainage, remove affected parts, use neem oil
Fungicides, systemic insecticides