Elephant Food Prostrata

Portulacaria afra 'Prostrata'

Light
Water
Low water once established; water deeply, then let soil dry between waterings. Container plants need more frequent summer watering. Reduce watering substantially in winter.
Toxicity
Description
A low-growing, trailing succulent with small, rounded, fleshy green leaves on reddish-brown stems; a spreading form of elephant food native to southern Africa.
Deciduous / Evergreen
Special Features
Growth Rate
Flower Color
Foliage Color
Non-toxic
Care Instructions

Light: Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal in Phoenix; tolerates more sun when gradually acclimated, but avoid intense reflected heat.

Water: Low water once established; water deeply, then let soil dry between waterings. Container plants need more frequent summer watering. Reduce watering substantially in winter.

Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil; use a porous cactus/succulent mix in containers.

Mature size: Typically 6–12 inches tall and 3–6 feet wide; may mound higher with age.

Bloom: May bloom in late spring or summer under favorable conditions; flowering is uncommon in cultivation.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen; may shed leaves during cold, drought, or other stress.

Growth rate: Moderate with warmth and appropriate watering; slower under dry conditions.