Variegated Elephant Food

The Variegated Elephant Food plant, scientifically known as Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ or Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’, is a delightful and highly popular succulent shrub, cherished for its vibrant, multi-colored foliage. This cultivar originates from the species Portulacaria afra, which is native to the dry climate zones across coastal and inland parts of South Africa, where it thrives on rocky outcrops and in bushveld environments. As a long-lived perennial, the Variegated Elephant Food can persist for many decades, potentially 50 years or more, developing into an attractive, spreading shrub over time.

Its most distinctive characteristic, and the source of its appeal, is its small, rounded, fleshy leaves that are beautifully variegated. Each leaf features a creamy-white to pale yellow center surrounded by a bright green margin, creating a striking contrast and a cheerful appearance. The thick, flexible stems are often reddish-brown, complementing the variegated foliage. Like its green counterpart, the “Elephant Food” moniker comes from its role as a favorite food source for elephants and other grazing animals in its native range. This plant’s ability to root easily from broken branches also contributes to its ecological success and ease of propagation. While primarily grown for its attractive foliage and unique form, mature plants may occasionally produce tiny, inconspicuous pink or lavender flowers in clusters at the ends of the branches, typically in late spring or early summer, though flowering is less common in cultivation. The Variegated Elephant Food is exceptionally drought-tolerant and can withstand heat and various well-drained soil types. Its adaptability, ease of care, and ability to be pruned and shaped make it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, containers, bonsai, and as a colorful, low-maintenance accent in sunny, mild climates, performing beautifully in Phoenix, Arizona, landscapes.