Portulacaria afra ‘Prostrata’
elephant food
Jade plant look alike is a versatile, simple, fine-textured, lovely succulent shrub. Ruby red stems grow flat and wide, and cascade from pots and walls.
 Height | 6–12 |
|---|---|
 Width | 3–6 |
 Tolerates | Coast, Cool Summers, Drought, Fog, Heat, Pots, Salt, Wind |
 Water needs | Low |
This succulent likes to be fully saturated and then go totally dry before the next watering; you risk rotting the roots if you water while there is significant moisture in the soil. Keep an eye on the leaves, if they begin to shrivel the plant is ready for water. If the plant is in a small pot it will be heavy when well watered and lighter when it's ready for a drink. Remember your watering schedule will depend on the size of the pot (smaller pots needing more frequent watering) and environmental factors such as the season, weather, humidity and exposure. Don't leave succulents in standing water, such as a saucer, for more than a day. | |
 Hardy to | 25°F |
 Exposure | Part Sun – Full Sun |
 Plant traits | Mounding, Rock Garden, Shrub, Succulent |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | All Purpose, Low Needs |
 Origin | South Africa |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 9, 12–24, H1, H2 |
Growing Notes
Selectively prune to make this succulent more treelike. Often styled like a cascading bonsai and can even be gently wired like bonsai.
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The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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