This upright succulent shrub has thick trunk with grey bark and short rounded branches forming a domed crown. It has fleshy glossy green rounded leaves and the small pink saucer-shaped flowers appear in dense clusters during summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11 

Portulacaria afra is naturally found from Namibia to Mozambique growing on well drained, moderately fertile light soils in an open sunny position and is frost tender but drought tolerant. 

The Jade Plant is commonly grown for its attractive habit and is planted in small to medium gardens as a specimen plant or in patio pots. It may also be used as an indoor plant when young tolerating neglect once established. It will establish from a cutting in 2 to 3 years and responds well to fertile soil. When the temperature drops below 10ºC (50ºF) place the plant in a warm greenhouse. ID 1159

Portulacaria (port’-yoo-la-KAHR-ee-a) afra (AF-ra)

Portulacaceae (PAW-tew-LAK-AY-see-ee)
Parakelias