Spekboom (Portulacaria afra), we also knw it as “Elephant Bush” or maybe“Dwarf Jade Plant,” is more than just a pretty face in your succulent collection.
The plant is Native to South Africa mainly and unlike other jade plant that you might have seen, this hardy shrub edible vitamin rich leaves.
This succulent is also known for it’s ability to capture carbon from the air. In this article, we will go through everything you need to know about Spekboom
Botanical Profile: Identifying Portulacaria afra
Often mistaken for Crassula ovata(common jade), Portulacaria afra belongs to the Didiereaceae family and is glossy, rounder leaves with reddish and flexible stems. Mature plants can branch into a dense, bushy form up to six feet tall in the wild but remain compact (1–2 feet) in pots. In favorable climates (USDA zones 9b–11b), Spekboom in the right conditions can also produce star‑shaped red or pink flowers mostly in the late winter.
Native Habitat & Ecological Impact
Portulacaria afra originated in Eastern side of Cape of South Africa, Spekboom enjoys blooming in semi‑arid scrublands and rocky outcrops. It is majorly known for it;s for its exceptional water‑storage cells, allowing the plant to survive in the drought conditions.
Ecologically, Spekboom plays a key role in carbon sequestration—studies show well‑managed Spekboom thickets can capture up to 10 tons of CO₂ per hectare per year. It’s also nicknamed “Elephant Bush”, the reason behind that is it is staple forage plant for elephants in Africa.
Cultivation & Care: From Soil to Sunlight
Soil & Potting
Use a free‑draining cactus or succulent mix enriched with perlite or coarse sand. A pH of 6.5–7.5 is ideal. In containers, ensure ample drainage holes to prevent root rot as is possible in Dwarf jade if the soil holds much water.
Light Requirements
Spekboom flourishes in full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Indoors, place it somewhere there sunlight is available, like south‑ or west‑facing window
Watering
Adopt a “soak and dry” routine: water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. Overwatering leads to yellowing leaves and root rot as Dwarf jade is not a big fan of water and on the other side, underwatering causes leaf drop, so you need to take care and make sure you only water when the soil dries out.
Temperature & Hardiness
Hardy in USDA zones 9b–11b (25–50 °F minimum). Protect from frost below 25 °F, it can handle light frost but too much can definitely harm the Porkbush. Try to move the pots indoors or provide them with frost cloth.
Common Varieties of Spekboom (Portulacaria afra)
1. Portulacaria afra (Standard Green Form)
- Description: The classic variety with bright green, round leaves and reddish-purple stems.
- Growth: Upright, bushy; can grow several feet tall.
- Use: General landscaping, carbon farming, bonsai, edible use.
Also known as: Elephant Bush, Spekboom, Dwarf Jade Plant
2. Portulacaria afra ‘Prostrata’
(Also called: Trailing Elephant Bush or Low-Growing Spekboom)
- Description: A low-growing, trailing form with thinner stems.
- Growth: Spreads horizontally; excellent as groundcover or for hanging baskets.
- Use: Ideal for erosion control, edging, and cascading displays.
3. Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’
(Also called: Rainbow Bush, Variegated Elephant Bush)
- Description: Creamy white and green variegated leaves, sometimes with pink edges.
- Growth: Slightly slower than the green form.
- Use: Popular in indoor gardening, mixed succulent arrangements, or as bonsai.
4. Portulacaria afra ‘Minima’
(Also called: Miniature Elephant Bush)
- Description: Smaller leaves and compact growth; excellent for small pots and mini-bonsai.
- Growth: Densely packed stems and leaves.
- Use: Ideal for dish gardens, desk plants, and tiny bonsai styles.
5. Portulacaria afra ‘Aurea’
(Also called: Yellow Spekboom)
- Description: New growth emerges in yellow or golden-green and matures to light green.
- Growth: Upright and slightly more compact than the standard form.
- Use: Adds color contrast in succulent gardens or hedges.
6. Portulacaria afra ‘Macrophylla’
- Description: Features larger-than-normal leaves, sometimes double the size of the standard form.
- Growth: Upright; striking presence in containers or outdoor beds.
- Use: A bold, architectural option for succulent landscapes.
Are These True Botanical Varieties?
Botanically, for your information, I think you should know that these are cultivars or horticultural forms, not officially separate species or subspecies. They are clonal selections or natural mutations that have been propagated for ornamental value.
| Variety Name | Key Features | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (Green) | Bright green leaves, upright growth | General landscaping, edible |
| ‘Prostrata’ | Trailing, spreading habit | Groundcover, hanging pots |
| ‘Variegata’ | White-green variegation, pink edges | Indoor decor, bonsai |
| ‘Minima’ | Miniature leaves, dense form | Tiny bonsai, pots |
| ‘Aurea’ | Yellowish new growth | Color contrast in gardens |
| ‘Macrophylla’ | Extra-large leaves | Architectural interest |
Culinary & Medicinal Uses of Spekboom
Spekboom or dwarf jade leaves are edible and mildly tart—perfect for salads, smoothies, or can also be eaten raw on hikes. They are found to be rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and electrolytes.
In traditional medicine, mashed leaves are applied to minor skin irritations or they can also be consumed as a soothing tea for minor digestive issues. But make sure that you always wash the consumables thoroughly before consuming and also consume in moderation.
Common Pests & Problems: Diagnosis & Solutions
Spekboom is generally pest‑resistant but can fall prey to mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal rot under certain conditions like high humidity.
Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap, there are things available in the market which you can use to treat the plant if there are insects on it and ensure proper air circulation. To prevent rot, avoid overhead watering and improve soil drainage.
Advanced Bonsai & Landscape Uses
We have seen people use common jade for the purpose of Bonsai and landscape. Our Spekboom is also a great choice for a beginner Bonsai lover to begin their Bonsai journey with. With the use of wires and careful pruning, the plant can develop trunks and taper.
It is also used as groundcover or low hedge in xeriscaping —its rapid growth and rooting habit stabilize soil on slopes.
Conclusion: Why Spekboom Deserves to be in Your Garden
Spekboom or dwarf jade or maybe you wanna call it elephant’s bush, this plat is eco friendly, and is also used for some human purposes. If you are someone who is into succulents or even into plants, Spekboom can we a great choice to begin with.
THis South African native plant with minimal efforts keep you happy with it’s beauty and benefits year round