portulacaria

Portulacaria is a genus of small succulent shrubs in the family Portulacaceae, native to southern Africa. The best known species is Portulacaria afra, commonly called elephant bush, spekboom, or dwarf jade. It forms low, spreading shrubs with woody stems and small, fleshy leaves.

Description and characteristics: Portulacaria afra has opposite, oval leaves typically 1–2 cm long on slender stems that may become reddish-brown with age. The plant is drought-tolerant and well suited to bright light. In cultivation it is often kept compact or trained as a bonsai, and new growth roots readily from cuttings.

Distribution and habitat: Native to arid and semi-arid regions of southern Africa, including parts of South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana, Portulacaria thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. Many cultivated forms are frost-tender and grown outdoors only in warmer climates or indoors in cooler regions.

Cultivation and uses: Portulacaria afra is popular as an ornamental plant and for bonsai due to its small leaves and fast rooting from cuttings. It is available in various cultivars, including variegated forms. The plant is valued for low maintenance requirements and adaptability to container growing.

Taxonomy and note on identification: The genus includes several related species, but Portulacaria afra is the most widely cultivated. It is commonly confused with Crassula ovata (jade plant); however, Portulacaria leaves are typically smaller and arranged in opposite pairs on slender stems, whereas jade plant leaves are larger and borne on thicker stems.