How to Grow and Care for Portulacaria afra ‘Minima Lilliput’

Portulacaria afra ‘Minima Lilliput’, also known as Miniature Elephant Bush, is a dwarf succulent prized for its miniature stature. Its versatility and dense, compact form make it a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts, fairy gardens, and as a manageable indoor houseplant. The plant’s tiny features offer a unique aesthetic compared to its larger parent species.

Care and Characteristics

‘Minima Lilliput’ is distinguished from the standard Portulacaria afra by its smaller leaves and shorter internodes, which results in its compact and dense growth habit. These tiny, green leaves grow on reddish-brown stems. Its dense structure requires careful attention to air circulation around its base to keep it healthy.

This plant thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sun. When grown indoors, a south-facing window is a suitable location. It needs at least five to six hours of bright, filtered light daily to maintain its compact shape and prevent stretching. Too much intense sun can scorch the leaves, causing them to become yellow or red-tipped.

A gritty, well-draining soil mix is fundamental for its health. A commercial cactus or succulent mix works well, or you can create your own by amending potting soil with pumice or perlite to increase drainage. The pot must have drainage holes to prevent root rot, as this plant is susceptible to it if it sits in wet soil.

Watering should follow the “soak and dry” method. Water the plant thoroughly, then wait for the soil to dry out entirely before watering again. The plant will show signs of thirst with slightly wrinkled or limp leaves. During the dormant winter months, watering should be reduced significantly. Ideal temperatures range from 70-85°F during the day and 50-55°F at night, and it should be protected from temperatures below 40°F as it is not frost-tolerant.

Pruning and Shaping

Pruning is performed to maintain the ‘Minima Lilliput’s’ miniature size and to encourage a denser, more compact form. For those cultivating it as a bonsai specimen, regular trimming is essential for developing and refining its shape. Strategic pruning manages the growth of its branches to enhance the plant’s overall appearance.

To prune the plant, use clean, sharp scissors or small shears. Make cuts just above a leaf or a pair of leaves, which encourages the plant to branch out from the node just below the cut. This leads to fuller growth over time. Removing any dead or damaged branches can also be done during this process to keep the plant healthy.

This selective trimming helps direct the plant’s energy into producing new growth. Consistent shaping prevents the plant from becoming leggy or sparse, which can happen if it is not receiving enough light. The goal is to create a balanced form that highlights its naturally compact characteristics.

How to Propagate

Propagating Portulacaria afra ‘Minima Lilliput’ is done using stem cuttings, which can be taken during pruning. Take a healthy cutting from the mother plant using a sterile knife or scissors. The cutting should then be set aside in a dry place for several days to allow the cut end to dry and form a callus. This step is important for preventing rot when the cutting is planted.

Once the callus has formed, the cutting can be placed into a small pot filled with a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Plant the callused end just deep enough for the cutting to stand upright. Place the pot in a location that receives bright, indirect light and where temperatures are consistently warm, ideally above 65°F.

Keep the soil lightly moist but avoid overwatering, as the cutting will be susceptible to rot until it develops roots. You can check for root formation after a few weeks by gently tugging on the cutting; resistance indicates that roots have grown. New leaf growth is also a sign of successful rooting, which typically occurs within four to six weeks.