elephant bush

Sat, 02 May 2026 17:55:00 +0000

# Elephant Bush: The Versatile and Resilient Plant You Should Know About Elephant bush, scientifically known as Portulacaria afra, is a striking succulent that has earned a reputation as both a versatile houseplant and a hardy outdoor ground cover. Native to South Africa, this charming plant combines rugged resilience with aesthetic appeal, making it a favorite among gardeners, houseplant enthusiasts, and eco-conscious landscapers. Whether you’re looking to add greenery to your home or enhance your garden sustainably, the elephant bush is an excellent choice. ## What Is Elephant Bush? Portulacaria afra, commonly called elephant bush or dwarf jade, belongs to the Portulacaceae family. Despite its name evoking images of an elephant’s trunk-like stem, the plant has small, oval, fleshy leaves that resemble tiny jade leaves—hence the nickname “dwarf jade.” Native to arid regions of South Africa, it thrives in dry climates and is adapted to withstand drought conditions, making it an ideal low-maintenance plant.