Variegated Elephant Bush Succulent (Portulacaria Mediopicta) 5”pot

This Portulacaria is a compact, sun-loving succulent with small, round leaves with a creamy white centre and soft green margins. Unlike the traditional Portulacaria, the leaves of the Mediopicta sits on pink stems that add a delightful pop of colour. Its overall look is tidy yet lively, with a branching, bonsai-like growth habit that becomes more sculptural as it matures. The variegation stays bright when given sufficient light, giving this plant a fresh, cheerful appearance year-round! 

Portulacaria are excellent for succulent gardens, bonsai projects, and as a houseplant due to its drought-tolerant nature. Its manageable growth rate makes it perfect for smaller spaces. It has a bushy and upright growth habit that can be pruned to stay compact.

CARE:

• Does best with consistent bright indirect light and ideally several hours of direct light. 
• For optimal growth and vibrant foliage, place it near a south or west facing window. A few hours of direct morning or late afternoon sun is beneficial. It can tolerate direct afternoon sunlight but gradually acclimate the plant to avoid leaf scorch especially during the hottest summer months 
• Variegated types typically need more light to maintain their vibrant coloration. You may observe that the cream portions of leaves develop a pink hint with increased and consistent exposure to light.
• Allow the soil to dry out before watering. Do not keep the soil soggy as this will quickly lead to rot.
• When repotting, a well-draining gritty potting mix is recommended.
• Portulacaria can be prone to acclimatization shock if there’s a sudden change in its environment. It's best to keep it in a warm, consistent environment and avoid abrupt temperature shifts to cold drafts or intense heat which can stress the plant.