Portulacaria afra 'Medio-picta' (Variegated Elephant Bush)

Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’
Common Names: Variegated Elephant Bush, Variegated Dwarf Jade, Variegated Porkbush

Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ is a compact, slow-growing succulent cultivar native to South Africa. It features small, thick, oval leaves with green centers and creamy-white margins, giving a striking variegated appearance. Highly versatile, it is ideal for bonsai, container growing, rock gardens, and succulent collections. Mature plants typically reach 2–3 feet tall and 2–3 feet wide in containers, with slightly larger growth in the ground.

Care and Cultivation:

• Prefers bright light to full sun

• Water sparingly; allow soil to dry between waterings

• Use a fast-draining succulent or cactus soil mix

• Excellent for containers, bonsai, and indoor/outdoor succulent displays

Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:

• Best suited for USDA Zones 9–11

• Can tolerate brief cold down to about 25°F (-4°C) when dry

• Protect from prolonged freezing and excess moisture

• Ideal growing temperatures: 60–85°F (16–29°C)

Winter Dormancy and Health:

• Growth slows in cooler months

• Reduce watering significantly in winter

• Maintain bright light to preserve variegation

Notes:

• Variegated leaves provide year-round ornamental interest

• Compact, slow-growing form ideal for bonsai and containers

• Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance

• Excellent choice for indoor and outdoor succulent displays