Portulacaria afra ‘Lemon’ – Lemon Elephant Bush

Portulacaria afra ‘Lemon’ is a bright, cheerful variegated succulent with soft yellow-lime and green foliage that glows in good light. Its small, rounded leaves grow densely along reddish stems, creating a compact, shrubby shape that can be pruned and shaped over time. Easy to care for and wonderfully architectural, this drought-tolerant plant is perfect for sunny windowsills and makes an excellent candidate for bonsai styling.

Scientific Name
Portulacaria afra ‘Lemon’ (little purslane of Africa)

The genus name Portulacaria means “resembling Portulaca” (purslane), while afra means “from Africa.” It was first described by the botanist Nikolaus Joseph von Jacquin in the 18th century. The cultivar name ‘Lemon’ refers to its distinctive yellow-toned variegation.

Sometimes sold as Portulacaria afra ‘Lemon Variegata’ or incorrectly labelled as Crassula afra in older horticultural references.

Common Name
Lemon Elephant Bush, Variegated Elephant Bush, Dwarf Jade Plant, Porkbush

Origin
Native to South Africa, where it grows as a shrubby succulent in dry, rocky regions and is an important food source for elephants.

Light
Needs very bright light to maintain its lemon-yellow variegation. A sunny south- or west-facing windowsill is ideal. In lower light, the plant may revert to greener growth and become more stretched.

Water
Allow the compost to dry out completely between waterings. During spring and summer, water thoroughly but infrequently. In autumn and winter, reduce watering significantly – often every 3–4 weeks depending on conditions. Always ensure excess water drains away fully.

Humidity
Prefers dry air and does not require additional humidity. Perfect for centrally heated UK homes.

Soil
Use a free-draining cactus or succulent compost with added grit or perlite. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

Food
Feed lightly during the growing season (spring to early autumn) with a diluted cactus fertiliser every 3–4 waters. Do not feed in winter.

Temperature
Happy in typical indoor temperatures between 15–25°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.

Pet-safe
Generally considered non-toxic to pets, but ingestion may cause mild stomach upset. Best kept out of reach of curious animals.

Sprouts Top Tips
If new growth starts turning solid green, your plant likely needs more light – gradually move it to a brighter spot to restore that signature lemon colouring.

Extras
This plant responds beautifully to pruning and can be shaped into miniature tree forms. In its natural habitat, mature plants can grow into large shrubs several metres tall.

Did You Know?
In South Africa, Portulacaria afra is used in ecological restoration projects because it is
highly efficient at absorbing carbon and stabilising soil in arid environments.