If you’re seeking a touch of luck and an abundance of lush greenery, look no further than the Elephant Succulent Plant. Known scientifically as Portulacaria afra, this plant is rumored to bring good fortune to its owners. While we can’t guarantee luck, what we can promise is a stunning display of vibrant green foliage that requires minimal care. With small waxy leaves sprouting from red stems that gradually become woody, the Elephant Succulent Plant takes on the appearance of a miniature tree. Native to South Africa, this low-maintenance plant flourishes with just the right amount of neglect.
Key Takeaways
Brighten Up with the Right Light
To ensure the optimal growth of your Portulacaria afra, provide it with bright indirect light. These Elephant Succulents crave lots of light, requiring a minimum of four hours of indirect sunlight each day. However, be cautious not to expose the plant to direct sunlight, which can scorch its delicate leaves.
Watering Tips for Thriving Succulents
Allow the soil to dry out before watering your Elephant Succulent Plant. Remember, it’s better to err on the side of caution and slightly underwater than to overwater. As a succulent, Portulacaria afra stores water in its leaves, making it a self-sufficient and low-maintenance houseplant.
During the warmer months, when the plant is actively growing, it may require more water. However, as the colder months approach, the Elephant Succulent Plant tends to go dormant and requires less water. Adjust your watering routine accordingly.
Temperature: Find the Sweet Spot
Maintaining a temperature between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for this easy-care houseplant. If your Elephant Succulent Plant receives an ample amount of bright indirect light, it can withstand slightly cooler temperatures. However, avoid exposing it to anything below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer, you can move your Baby Jade Plant to a shaded spot on your deck or patio, but remember to bring it indoors before the first frost.
Embrace the Low Humidity Lifestyle
Portulacaria afra thrives in low-humidity environments. Providing drier conditions is key for the optimal growth of your Jade Plant. Allowing the soil to mostly dry out will cater to the plant’s needs. Be mindful not to place it in an area with high humidity, as this can impede proper drying of the soil.
Fertilizer: Nourish for Success
When your Baby Jade Plant is actively growing during the warmer months, give it a boost by providing fertilizer. Feed the plant once every four weeks, using a diluted complete liquid fertilizer or a fish/seaweed emulsion. Prior to fertilizing, water the plant to ensure the soil and roots are moist. This way, the roots are protected, and the plant can efficiently absorb the nutrients it needs. Alternatively, you can opt for a slow-release fertilizer mixed into the soil.
During the winter or colder months, when the Jade houseplant goes dormant, refrain from fertilizing.
Pro Tips for the Green Thumb
- The Elephant Succulent Plant is perfectly content in a small pot. Keeping it root-bound will help manage its size and maintain its charming appeal.
- When it’s time to repot your Portulacaria afra, ensure that the soil is dry. Allow a couple of weeks to pass after repotting before watering, giving the roots time to settle in.
- Propagating Portulacaria afra is a breeze. Simply take a single leaf and let it sit for a few days until the cut end scabs over. Then, place the cutting in soil. Find a warm area with plenty of bright indirect light and be patient as the roots emerge. Within a couple of weeks, depending on the light and temperature, roots should take hold. Water the new plant once roots have formed.
Discover the joy of owning an Elephant Succulent Plant. Its captivating aesthetics and low-maintenance nature make it the perfect addition to any space. So why wait? Visit the Ames Farm Center today and bring home your own piece of natural beauty.
