Portulacaria afra large leaf form is a succulent shrub or small tree admired for its attractive, larger-than-typical rounded leaves and its ease of cultivation. This variation of the popular Elephant Bush offers a more substantial foliage presence, making it a striking addition to succulent collections, bonsai projects, and water-wise landscapes.
 
Key Features of Portulacaria afra large leaf form
Larger Rounded Leaves: This form boasts noticeably larger, fleshy, rounded leaves compared to the standard Portulacaria afra.
Reddish Stems: Young stems are typically reddish-brown, maturing to grey with age.
Succulent Nature: The leaves and stems are succulent, allowing the plant to store water efficiently.
Evergreen Foliage: Retains its leaves year-round in frost-free environments.
Adaptable Growth Habit: Can be grown as a shrub, small tree, or trained as a bonsai.
Small Pink Flowers (Occasional): Mature plants may produce clusters of small, star-shaped pink flowers, though this is more common under specific environmental conditions and with mature specimens.
 
Care for Your Portulacaria afra large leaf form
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect to full sunlight. More sunlight generally results in more compact growth and richer leaf color.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A standard cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, which is a common cause of problems. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is generally not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to a range of humidity levels.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Pruning: Responds well to pruning, making it suitable for shaping as a shrub or training as bonsai. Regular pruning can encourage bushier growth.
Repotting (if in container): Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Generally pest-resistant, but monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and scale. Treat any infestations promptly.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: The easiest and most common method. Take stem cuttings a few inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower and less reliable than stem cuttings. Allow the cut end of a leaf to callus before placing it on well-draining soil.
Seeds: Can be propagated from seeds, although this method is slower and may not produce plants identical to the parent cultivar.
 
Portulacaria afra large leaf form is a versatile and attractive succulent that offers a more substantial foliage display than the standard Elephant Bush. Its ease of care, adaptability to pruning, and suitability for various growing styles make it a popular choice for both novice and experienced succulent enthusiasts.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.