Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ – Variegated Elephant Bush

With its creamy-white and green oval leaves, reddish stems, and gently trailing habit, Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ is a much-loved succulent that brings brightness and structure to any indoor collection. Also known as Rainbow Bush, this variegated form of the Elephant Bush is drought-tolerant, fast-growing, and ideal for sunny windowsills or even bonsai projects.

Scientific Name
Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ (also known in some classifications as Crassula afra ‘Variegata’)

Synonyms
Crassula afra ‘Variegata’, Rainbow Bush, Mini Jade (not to be confused with Crassula ovata)

Common Name
Variegated Elephant Bush, Rainbow Bush, Miniature Jade Plant

Origin
Native to South Africa, Eswatini, and Mozambique – typically found in arid scrublands

Light
Thrives in bright light with at least a few hours of direct sun. South- or west-facing windowsills are ideal. Insufficient light can lead to dull colouring and leggy growth.

Water
Water thoroughly only when the soil has completely dried out. In spring and summer, this may be every 1–2 weeks. In winter, water once a month or less. Overwatering is the main risk.

Humidity
Prefers dry indoor air. Avoid high humidity or over-misting.

Soil
Use a sharply-draining succulent or cactus mix. Add extra perlite, pumice, or sand to improve drainage if needed.

Food
Feed every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted cactus or succulent fertiliser. Do not feed in winter.

Temperature
Ideal range is 18–26°C. Can tolerate down to 5°C if kept dry. Not frost-hardy.

Pet-safe
Yes – non-toxic to pets and children.

Sprouts Top Tips
This plant responds well to pruning – pinch out the tips to encourage bushier growth and keep it compact. Can be trained as a miniature tree or left to trail naturally.

Extras
Stems may become woody over time, giving the plant a mini-tree appearance – great for bonsai styling.

Did You Know?
In its native habitat, this plant plays an important role in carbon sequestration and is often used in reforestation projects in South Africa.