Portulacaria afra Macrophylla - Elephant bush

Portulacaria afra 'Macrophylla', also known as the elephant bush, is a succulent shrub native to South Africa. Valued for its fleshy, rounded foliage, in a soft green hue, and its thick reddish stems, this cultivar is distinguished by its larger leaves compared to the typical species. It is often compared to Crassula ovata (jade plant) but grows faster and is more drought-tolerant. Ideal for pots or bonsai, it is very hardy and adapts perfectly to bright indoor cultivation.

Portulacaria afra 'Macrophylla' belongs to the Didiereaceae family. The species is native to the arid regions of South Africa, where it grows wild as a dense bush or a small tree, reaching several metres in height. This species has the botanical synonyms Crassula portulacaria, Haenkea crassifolia, Portulacaria portulacaria, Claytonia portulacaria.

Indoors, when grown in a pot, Portulacaria afra 'Macrophylla' reaches 80 cm to 1 m in height, depending on the pot size and pruning frequency. Its fleshy, oval leaves measure 2 to 3 cm in diameter and display a bright green colour that contrasts with its reddish stems. With a naturally branching habit, it is an excellent plant for bonsai training. If conditions are right, this elephant bush may produce small, pale pink star-shaped flowers in summer. However, flowering is rare indoors.

Portulacaria afra 'Macrophylla' thrives in a very bright position, preferably in full sun or near a well-exposed window. It tolerates temperatures ranging from 10 to 30 °C, but must be protected from cold below 5 °C. Its growing medium must be very well-draining, with a mix of cactus compost, coarse sand, and perlite being ideal to avoid excess moisture. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. In winter, the plant enters dormancy and will only require occasional watering.

Portulacaria afra 'Macrophylla' can be placed in a bright living room, conservatory, or well-lit office. Planted in a terracotta pot, it benefits from good drainage, and the terracotta colour will highlight its lush green foliage. It pairs well with other succulent shrubs, such as Crassula ovata 'Minor' or Euphorbia tirucalli, as well as with other succulents like Aloe or Senecio barbertonicus. For a bonsai effect, it can be grown in a shallow pot and pruned regularly to densify its foliage.