Calling all succulent lovers! Portulacaria afra or spekboom is a charming little succulent that stays petite indoors. Indigenous to South Africa and Swaziland, it grows on rocky slopes, mitigating erosion and providing food for elephants, giving way to its alternative nomenclature, the elephant bush. The elephants actually kickstart the propagation process by trampling the succulents under foot, allowing them to re-root in the soil!

Portulacaria afra has a similar appearance to jade bushes–tiny, rounded succulent leaves and thick, woody stems. They tend to be paler in color, however, and sport narrower branches. Portulacaria afra ‘variegata’ has green and cream leaves with red stems and has a prevailing trailing habit. This variegated variety is particularly attractive in a hanging pot, cascading down a sunny window!

While the foliage may seem unassuming to some, portulacarias harbor a wide range of practical uses. They are absolute powerhouses when it comes to reducing carbon dioxide levels in the air. They have the ability to absorb more carbon than deciduous plants and turn it into oxygen! 

Treatortulacaria as you would treat any other succulent. They thrive in bright light and sandy, rocky, well-draining potting mix. Watering should occur every other week, or when the leaves feel slightly squishy rather than firm. Be intentional about letting the soil dry out after watering, afterall, succulents are adept at storing their own water in their juicy stems and leaves!