Variegated Elephant Food

Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'

Variegated Elephant Food  - Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'
Variegated Elephant Food  - Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'

Variegated Elephant Food

Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'

Showy arching succulent with small slightly ovate variegated leaves on a contrasting dark reddish-brown stem.  Great for succulent gardens where some height is needed.  Use as a single specimen plant as a background element.  Also known as Rainbow Bush.  If used in containers, plant will tend to stay much smaller which is why Bonsai experts love Portulacaria.  It's extremely drought tolerant and can tolerate many soil types, however prefers well-drained.  Hardy to 30 deg. F.  USDA Zones 10-11.   


Foliage: Evergreen

Sun Exposure: Full Sun/lite Shade

Water Needs: Low

Bloom Season: Summer

Mature Height: 6-7'

Mature Width: 4-5'

Attributes: Drought Tolerant, Xeriscape, Southwestern Garden, Mediterranean & Tuscan Garden, Seacoast Tolerant, Cacti & Succulents


Proper planting technique will help your plants thrive! Follow these simple steps to help your plants establish quickly, develop a strong root system, and live longer:

  • Properly dig the hole
  • Amend the soil to suit each particular plant
  • Place the plant and backfill the soil
  • Provide ample water for each particular plant
  • Review our how to plant guide!

For detailed information, please download our planting guides:

We deliver to Southern California including Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Diego County, Riverside County, Imperial County, Ventura County, Santa Barbara County, and neighboring areas.

List of delivery zones and rates.
Delivery Zone Delivery Rate
Zone 1 $69.00
Zone 2 $89.00
Zone 3 $109.00
Zone 4 $139.00
Zone 5 $179.00
Extended Delivery Contact Us