Portulacaria afra variegata
Portulacaria afra variegata
DidiereaceaePortulacaria afra variegata · a succulent from the Didiereaceae family, a succulent shrub with glossy, rounded leaves. Grown in our nursery in the Almería desert in full sun, with minimal watering and 100% mineral soil—the plant in the photo is the one you will receive.
About Portulacaria afra variegata
Portulacaria afra variegata is one of the most distinctive succulents in the Didiereaceae family. Its origin is in South Africa. The most striking thing about this plant is reddish stems and small fleshy leaves, a feature that defines its personality and sets it apart within its genus.
We grow Portulacaria afra variegata at Succulentae, in the heart of the Almería desert, where the dry Mediterranean climate replicates the ideal conditions for the plant to develop its compact form and best coloration. It’s the difference between a succulent grown under real sun and a greenhouse one — and it shows in shape, color and longevity.
Botanical fact sheet
| Scientific name | Portulacaria afra variegata | |
| Family | Didiereaceae | |
| Origin | South Africa | |
| Natural habitat | semi-arid scrubland | |
| Adult size | up to 4 m | |
| Flowering | small pink flowers | |
| Propagation | very easy from cutting | |
| Toxicity | non-toxic · edible leaves |
Did you know?
Known as “Mini Jade Tree” or “Spekboom”, Portulacaria afra is one of the plants that captures the most CO₂ per hectare: 1 ha equals 4-10 tons of CO₂ captured per year.
Light
Very bright, indirect or filtered light. Ideal near a south or east window.
Water
Water when the substrate is completely dry. In summer every 1-2 weeks, let it rest in winter (every 3-4 weeks or less).
Substrate
Mineral substrate with high drainage: pumice, akadama and a little peat. We ship it ready in its substrate — no repotting needed for 12-18 months.
Temperature
Ideal between 18 and 28 °C. Tolerates down to 5 °C in winter if the substrate is dry. Protect from frost.
"Arrived in perfect condition and very well packaged. The plant is gorgeous, even better than in the photo."
"Fast service, healthy and beautiful plant. Will order again."
"Very happy with the purchase. Only minus one star because it took an extra day."