A tree in mini format: Portulacaria Afra
Are you looking for a plant that is easy to grow and can transform into a mini bonsai without too much attention? Portulacaria Afra is the perfect candidate!
The little tree that elephants love so much
With its tiny fleshy leaves and woody stems, it resembles a small miniature tree. It is a very hardy succulent, native to the arid regions of South Africa, where it is often a food source for elephants (hence its nickname "Elephant Bush").
Why is it so beloved?
Portulacaria Afra is a much-loved little plant! This is for several main reasons, including:
- Versatility: It can be grown as a hanging plant, allowing its woody stems to grow freely in all directions. Alternatively, you can grow it as a true mini bonsai, using wire to direct its branches, making it develop an upright habit.
- It is very hardy: it tolerates intense heat and even short periods of drought.
- Its nature as a miniature tree makes it truly delightful.
How to care for Portulacaria Afra?
Light: Place it in indirect light, or outdoors in a sheltered area. The first delicate hours of morning light are perfect!
Watering: Avoid waterlogging; it does not like its substrate to be soggy. Water it only when it is completely dry. To prevent waterlogging, I recommend using the Cactaceae & succulent mix, a light and sandy substrate perfect for it.
Pruning Portulacaria Afra
Pruning our little Portulacaria is possible, or rather, necessary! It can be an aesthetic choice, but also and above all functional. Pruning it means giving it a "jolt" and activating new shoots and new growth points. Or, if you opt for cultivation with wire, it can be an aesthetic choice to achieve the desired shape.
Portulacaria Afra Varieties
Among the most beautiful varieties, two types definitely stand out.
The Portulacaria Afra "Mediopicta"
With intense and vivid fuchsia/red stems. Its leaves have green tips and a creamy inner variegation.
The Portulacaria Afra "Variegata"
With darker, burgundy stems. The leaves have an inverse variegation to that of the Mediopicta, with creamy/yellow tips and a mint green inner variegation.
Choosing to have a Portulacaria Afra in your collection means cultivating a very graceful mini tree, with small colorful leaves and a taste of South Africa. Moreover, in its Kokedama version, its beauty is extreme!
