Portulacaria afra WHITE VARIEGATED 15-20cm

The White Variegated Portulacaria afra, a striking variation of the standard Elephant Bush, features leaves with unique patterns of white and green. This variation adds an appealing contrast and texture to gardens and indoor plant collections. Similar to its green counterpart, it's a hardy succulent but with an added aesthetic value due to its variegation. Here's a more detailed description and some cultivation tips:

Description

• Leaves: Small, round to oval leaves are predominantly green with creamy white variegation. The variegation patterns can vary greatly from leaf to leaf, with some leaves almost entirely white and others showing a mix of green and white.
• Stems: The plant has reddish-brown stems that become woody with age, offering a nice contrast to the variegated foliage.
• Growth Habit: It tends to grow more slowly than the non-variegated type due to the reduced chlorophyll in the leaves, which can limit photosynthesis. The plant can reach up to several feet in height, but it's typically kept smaller in pots.
• Flowers: It can produce small, star-shaped pink flowers, although flowering is rare, especially in indoor conditions.

Cultivation Tips

• Light: Requires bright, indirect light to maintain its variegation. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, especially the white parts, but insufficient light can lead to a loss of variegation.
• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix is essential to prevent root rot. You can enhance drainage by adding perlite or pumice to regular potting soil.
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot. In winter, reduce watering further.
• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is frost-sensitive. If you live in a cooler climate, it's best grown as a houseplant or moved indoors during the cold months.
• Propagation: Propagates easily from cuttings. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.

Because of its variegated leaves, which contain less chlorophyll than fully green plants, the White Variegated Portulacaria afra may grow more slowly and require more attention to light conditions to thrive. It's a visually stunning plant that can add a unique texture and color contrast to succulent collections, rock gardens, or as a standalone houseplant.