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The Rooted Plant Shop

Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ Rainbow Bush 3”

Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ Rainbow Bush 3”

Regular price $12.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $12.00 USD
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Each plant is unique. Size, shape, fullness, and variegation will vary.

Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’, commonly called variegated elephant bush or rainbow bush, is a compact succulent with small, round leaves marked in green and creamy white, often with pink tones along the edges and red stems. The foliage grows in tight clusters along upright stems, giving it a full, structured look that can resemble a miniature jade tree. Its color contrast and clean shape make it a strong, easy-care statement in a small footprint.

Light is key to keeping the variegation bright and the plant compact. Place it in a south or west-facing window where it can receive strong natural light, or directly in an east window if that’s your brightest option. Under grow lights, use 5000K–6500K at 1500–3000 foot-candles. Too little light will cause the variegation to fade and the plant to stretch with wider spacing between leaves, while strong light enhances the pink tones and keeps growth tight.

Watering should be minimal and controlled. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, then water thoroughly and let it dry again. Use a mix of succulent soil, perlite, and orchid bark to keep it fast-draining. If the leaves begin to flatten and space out along the stem, it’s reaching for more light. If leaves wrinkle slightly but stay firm, it’s ready for water, while soft, yellowing leaves indicate it’s staying too wet rather than drying out.

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