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Elephant's Food

Portulacaria Afra

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Overview

Portulacaria afra, commonly known as Elephant's Food, is a drought-tolerant succulent that features small, rounded, jade green leaves on reddish-brown stems. It can reach up to 8-15 feet in height and spread 4-6 feet. This evergreen is excellent for adding texture to landscapes and thrives in USDA zones 10-11. Prune for shape and control; it serves well in rock gardens or as a low-maintenance container plant.

Sun Full, Half, ShadeWater LowZones 9–11Type SucculentClimate Arid, Subtropical
Elephant's Food (Portulacaria Afra) — though it often stays smaller when cultivated in containers; it can reach up to 8-15 feet in height and, image 83

Culture

Sun
Full, Half, Shade
Water
Low
USDA zones
9–11

Shape & size

Classification

Type
Succulent
Family
Portulacaceae
Climate
Arid, Subtropical

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Photos (121)

Elephant's Food (Portulacaria Afra) — Overwatering can lead to root rot
Elephant's Food (Portulacaria Afra) — indirect sunlight but can tolerate partial shade; succulent with lavender blooms, image 61
Elephant's Food (Portulacaria Afra) — textured appearance.<br><br>Elephant's Food thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11 and prefers bright
Elephant's Food (Portulacaria Afra) — This evergreen is excellent for adding texture to landscapes and thrives in USDA zones 10-11; succulent for full or half
Elephant's Food (Portulacaria Afra) — succulent for full or half or shade; green touch to any garden space, image 100
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Portulacaria Afra
Photographs by 3 contributors

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