Portulacaria afra minima

Elephant Mat

The beauty of a low growing shrub, especially with dark green leaves and red stems, is just what we are often looking for in the landscape. And so we tried many of the spreading Manzinitas - but found them completely unhappy, and unsuccessful, in the salty waters and warmer climates of Southern California. Portulacaria ‘Elephant Mat’ fills the bill! Everything we wanted in a Manzinita - permanent shrub, same color profile, sun or part shade, and drought tolerance! NOT an “iceplant”, this is a durable shrub for decades of service. Rarely exceeding 6” in height, and slowly spreading to 4’. Full sun, or part shade. Tender to freeze.