You can start an elephant bush bonsai from seed or by propagation. However, summer-propagated cuttings are the simplest to grow from.
How should an elephant bush be shaped?
Elephant bush, Portulacaria afra, is a South African perennial succulent shrub that is grown in succulent gardens all over the world. In our region of the world, it is simply planted as a seasonal accent plant or low-maintenance houseplant. It is a rocky outcrop or slope that can be found from the Little Karoo in the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape northward into KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland, Mpumalanga, the Limpopo Province, and farther north into Mozambique. It is also sometimes called elephant food or elephant plant; dwarf jade, miniature jade, or small leaf jade (but is not related to jade plant, Crassula ovata);
Although it is thought to belong to the Portulacaceae plant family, which only includes species found in Madagascar, molecular phylogenetic studies indicate this genus belongs to the Didiereaceae. According to recent studies, P. afra is a superior “carbon sponge” that can efficiently absorb more carbon from the air than most other plants (since it can grow using both normal and CAM pathways despite challenging climatic conditions) and remove more carbon from the atmosphere than an equivalent amount of deciduous forest.
In mild regions, this upright, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree with soft woods can reach heights of 8 to 15 feet (hardy in zones 9- 11). Round to oval-shaped, fleshy, virtually sessile (lacks a discernible petiole), 1/2–3/4 inch long leaves are flattened and thick. The tapering branches and brittle, fleshy, reddish-brown stems that support the opposing, glossy leaves eventually turn a grayish color. The branches and trunk have a woody inner tissue despite being succulent. If not clipped, the stiff, disorganized branches will develop into a thicket. In the event that heavy branches break, they frequently take root where they land and start new plants. Jade plant-like in appearance, but with much smaller leaves that are typically closer together on thinner stalks.
The leaf was once employed as a medicine for a number of minor diseases. It is edible and is frequently consumed in southern Africa, mainly in salads or soups to provide a sour flavor. Because of its capacity to stay succulent through periods of scorching heat and dryness, it is commonly consumed by domestic and wild animals and is a favorite diet of tortoises. Elephants do consume the plant, leaving behind the lower, spreading branches and numerous broken twigs when they strip the branches of the leaves. These roots eventually help the colony to grow and thicken, giving rise to new thickets called “spekboomvelds.”
The plant cannot survive because other animals, including goats, devour it from the ground up. Except in places like parks or reserves where non-native browsers are restricted, overgrazing and inadequate regeneration are causing elephant bush populations to decline. This is because P. afra seed has a difficult time germinating in its native habitat.
After a dry winter without irrigation, plants in their natural habitat (or in regions like Southern California where they can be planted in the ground) produce a profusion of small, unnoticeable pink or white blooms in late spring or early summer. The flowers are difficult to cultivate. At the tips of the branches, clusters of flowers are created. Five pointed petals and conspicuous stamens are features of the star-shaped blooms. Tiny, clear to pink, berry-like dry fruits with one seed each follow pollinated flowers.
Elephant bushes thrive best in hanging baskets, as part of mixed succulent dish gardens, or as delicate bonsai specimens in the Midwest because of their dense branching, which lends even young plants a venerable appearance. By pinching or trimming just above a pair of leaves, the plant may easily be retained in practically any size or form because it readily generates buds whenever branches or even leaves are removed.
The succulent plant’s compact root ball fits into standard shallow bonsai pots nicely and requires less continual care because it can tolerate drying better than more classic bonsai subjects like maples or evergreens. To add contrast in color and texture, stage plants in containers alone with other potted plants. However, despite the fact that they may grow in very little soil, because of their top-heavy succulent leaves and stems, plants may need to be anchored with a rock or stake until they are well-established. The stems’ crimson hue works well as a color echo with plants with red, purple, or dark foliage, and the medium-fine texture of the foliage contrasts nicely with wide-leaved annuals or perennials like coleus or heucheras. To thrive, Portulacaria afra needs exceptionally well-drained soil and bright light. Avoid using a lot of sand since the particle size tends to be small and will fill pore spaces more quickly than other materials. Instead, use cactus mix or a bespoke potting medium with generous amounts of small pea gravel, poultry grit, pumice, or other non-porous minerals. The best pottery to use for better moisture evaporation is unglazed pottery. Typically, a south-facing window inside is the best option, but eastern or western exposures are also suitable. Too much direct sunlight may burn the foliage or cause the tips of the leaves to turn yellow or red, which some people love. To locate the best position for optimum growth, some location-testing may be necessary. After all threat of frost has gone, potted plants can be brought outside for the growing season. If a plant is suddenly relocated from inside a house to full sun outdoors, the leaves are likely to become burnt. Instead, gradually adapt the plant to the new environment. When the nighttime temperature falls below 40°F, go back inside. If there is less light indoors than there was outdoors, it can lose some leaves when it transitions.
Elephant bushes are quite drought resilient, yet with enough water, they develop more quickly and have lusher foliage. It is vulnerable to root rot in constantly damp soil, so take care not to overwater it. Winter irrigation should be minimized. Withhold water until the lower leaves start to shrink, which could take several months, unless the indoor climate is extremely light and warm. Once the day lengthens in the spring, begin watering sparingly once more, waiting until the soil has dried to a depth of one inch before doing so. Plants in pots need fertilizer every month during the growing season (or more frequently if pruning a lot to grow a dense plant in a small container). Repot the plant when the container is full or when the roots are poking through the drainage holes. Although mealybugs can be a problem, especially indoors, this plant has few pests. It does not tolerate some pesticide applications, like many succulents do. Chemicals with a petroleum base should be avoided, or tested on a small number of leaves first to ensure that the material won’t harm the leaves.
This plant can be grown from seed, however cuttings are the most common method of propagation. Within 4 to 6 weeks in any kind of potting medium at mild temperatures, stem cuttings can easily root. The optimum times to take cuttings are in the spring or summer, and the cut areas should be given a few days to callus before being placed in the rooting media. They can also take root in liquid. Even leaves that are broken off by accident while trimming or performing other tasks have the potential to take root.
There are many different kinds, but the majority of them can only be found at specialized nurseries. It is conceivable that some mislabeling occurs, which could lead to the sale of identical plants under several labels. The green varieties are typically larger and more robust than the variegated varieties.
- ‘Aurea’ is a compact type, and in full sun, the young leaves are a vivid yellow.
- Because of its fissured, corky bark, “Cork Bark,” chosen by a bonsai expert, is coveted for bonsai.
- The slow-growing variegated variant “Foliis variegatus” is perfect for container culture.
- The leaves on “Limpopo” are substantially bigger. It is the species’ most northern native form (P. afra forma macrophylla).
- The variety known as “Medio-picta” has red stems and green leaves with pale patterns radiating from the center.
- Low-growing varieties that are good for use as ground covers are “Prostrata” and “Low Form.”
- Variegata has a more compact, upright form, lighter-colored leaves with pink accents and white or cream edges than the species, although it is less tolerant of direct sunlight.
Do I need to trim my elephant bush?
If the branches of this plant are not clipped, they will develop into unkempt brush. Because of this, pruning is a crucial component of elephant bush maintenance. The elephant bush in your garden will stay in top condition with regular pruning.
- Elephant Bush should be pruned to achieve the correct shape. Some people favor pruning bonsai.
- Removing leaves that are broken or dead.
- Get rid of any dead branches.
- Plant parts with illness should be cut off and disposed of completely away from the plant.
My elephant bush is leggy, why?
Bright light is ideal for elephant bushes. Although portulacaria plants may tolerate some shade, they like to receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Elephant bush plants must also be shielded from piercing direct sunlight. The leaf tips may burn or become yellow if there is too much sunshine coming in through the window.
Elephant Portulacaria plants do best when grown close to a sunny window. Elephant bush oval leaves have a rich jade hue that is kept vivid by sunlight. Additionally, avoiding too much shade keeps the stems of trailing elephant bush from getting lanky and covered in scant leaves.
The best elephant bush care advice is to give plants of the genus Portulacaria afra more light than heat or water.
Light Requirements for Growing Rainbow Elephant Bush Plants
To maintain the leaf variegation, Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ “rainbow elephant bush needs more sunlight. You must grow rainbow Portulacaria plants in the room’s brightest area. Make sure to shield the rainbow elephant plant from the intense noon light to prevent the leaves from burning and falling off.
Long-term shade exposure will cause the leaves of rainbow elephant bush plants to turn a darker green color. The vibrant, creamy leaves may eventually lose the majority of their variegation. Consequently, it could take some trial and error to locate the best location for variegated succulents to thrive inside.
Is it possible to grow elephant bush from leaves?
One of the simplest succulents to grow from stem cuttings is Portulacaria Afras. This seems to be the simplest and quickest way to spread. Although this is not my favourite method, you can also grow roots from leaves.
When the falling leaves settle in the pot, I do leave them alone and let them proceed as they like. Use the entire leaf, including the base, when propagating from leaf cuttings to ensure success. Stem cuttings are my preferred method because I find them to be simpler, quicker, and practically foolproof. Leaf propagation is more difficult and time-consuming in my opinion.
Repotting a Variegated Elephant Bush plant revealed a few rooted leaves.
How to Propagate a Portulacaria Afra Plant:
Obtain a few stem or leaf cuttings, and then let them to dry for about a day.
Dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional). Although some individuals like to add a rooting hormone to expedite the procedure and ensure success, I don’t really see the necessity for it.
- Insert the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix after the wound has healed and dried. When utilizing leaves, you can either bury them in the ground or lay them flat.
- Avoid the sun’s direct rays. Every few days or whenever the soil becomes dry, water it.
- You will see new roots forming after about two weeks.
- The cuttings should be fully rooted after four to six weeks, and you will soon see new growth emerging from the top.
You now have it. These plants can be easily multiplied from stem cuttings. They grow all over my house, and I really use them as filler in several of my pots. I’ve also distributed a lot to pals.
In my article “Easiest Way To Propagate Succulents,” I described how I expanded my collection of succulents by using stem cuttings. Being able to expand your collection and having them literally sprout everywhere is a truly satisfying experience.
Flowers and Fragrance
The small, glossy green leaves that emerge from the reddish brown stem of the elephant bush succulent give it away.
However, they will produce flowers in clusters and in hues of white, pink, or purple if given the right growing conditions.
Light and Temperature
To grow and thrive, the Portulacaria afra plant needs a lot of bright light and a warm atmosphere.
The tiny jade plant’s leaves will scorch and fall off if it is transferred from indoors to direct sunlight outside.
The Rainbow Elephant Bush can endure brief periods of light frost and temperatures as low as 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
Growing Afra in a container will allow you to bring this succulent indoors during the colder months if you live in an area with icy winters.
Watering and Feeding
The Elephant Bush Succulent is a drought-tolerant plant, therefore it doesn’t require a lot of water to survive. It can withstand hot and dry weather.
In general, a developing Elephant bush plant requires more water in the hotter, drier summer months than in the milder winter months.
To make sure you are not overwatering this succulent plant, wait until the top layer of soil has slightly dried before watering it once again.
Use a diluted indoor plant fertilizer at a 50 percent strength to feed plants in the early spring or the late winter.
Potting Soil and Transplanting
With very little soil, trailing elephant bush succulents can thrive. The plants are top-heavy due to their thick branches and succulent foliage.
Plants may need a rock or stake when they are first planted to help stabilize them until they are well-established.
A well-draining potting mixture, such as a cactus mix or sandy succulent soil, is required for portulacaria afra.
Pots require drainage holes, so adding more perlite for more drainage also helps.
Avoid letting the soil become soggy since overwatering can quickly harm the plant.
To make sure the plant is receiving enough soil nutrients, repotting should be done every two years or so.
To ensure that the plant receives an adequate supply of nutrients, make sure the potting mix in the new container is fresh.