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Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ – A Living Work of Art
Discover the captivating beauty of Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’, a succulent masterpiece renowned for its unique, variegated foliage and striking, artful texture. Perfect for modern indoor gardens, this resilient plant not only adds a touch of natural elegance but also symbolizes renewal and growth.
Why You'll Love Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’
- 🌱 Unique variegation that creates a dynamic, eye-catching display
- 🪴 Low-maintenance care, ideal for busy plant lovers
- ☀️ Thrives in bright, indirect light and tolerates drought
- 💚 Enhances any indoor space with its modern, artistic vibe
Common Names
- Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’
- Elephant Bush (Variegated)
- Surrogate Tree
Botanical Classification
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Rosales
- Family: Didiereaceae
- Genus: Portulacaria
- Species: Portulacaria afra
Where It Comes From
Native to the semi-arid regions of South Africa, Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ thrives in warm, dry climates and is well-suited for container gardening in both urban and desert-inspired landscapes.
A Symbol of Renewal and Resilience
Often associated with longevity and prosperity, Portulacaria afra has become a favorite among collectors and designers. Its variegated leaves and modern appeal make it a standout piece that inspires creativity and growth.
Why It’s So Popular
- Perfect for adding a unique, artistic touch to any indoor setting
- Low-maintenance and easy to care for, ideal for beginners
- Enhances interior décor with its sculptural, variegated beauty
- Symbolizes renewal and is great for both aesthetic and air-purifying purposes
What Does It Look Like?
Appearance
Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ showcases striking, variegated leaves that blend shades of green with lighter, cream tones. Its foliage creates a dynamic, mosaic-like pattern that is as visually appealing as it is unique.
Growth Habit
This succulent grows in a compact, clumping form, with new leaves emerging gracefully from a low, spreading base. Its manageable size makes it perfect for tabletops and small indoor gardens.
Popular Peperomia Varieties
- Peperomia Watermelon – Unique patterned leaves resembling a watermelon rind.
- Peperomia Mendoza – Compact size with vibrant green and red foliage.
- Peperomia Obtusifolia Marble – Variegated, glossy leaves ideal for indoor displays.
- Raindrop Peperomia – Distinct, raindrop-shaped leaves for a modern look.
Dealing with Pests
Aphids
Aphids can cause sticky residue and distorted growth on leaves. Rinse your plant with water or use insecticidal soap to manage infestations. Learn More
Scale Insects
Scale insects may attach to branches and leaves, causing discoloration and damage. Gently remove them by hand or treat with horticultural oil. Learn More
Spider Mites
Spider mites can lead to speckled leaves and fine webbing. Increase humidity and apply neem oil or insecticidal soap as needed to control them. Learn More
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best care practices for Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’?
Provide bright, indirect light and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Use a well-draining succulent mix and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
How often should I water Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’?
Typically, water every 2-3 weeks, but adjust based on indoor humidity and temperature conditions.
Can Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ be grown indoors?
Yes, this succulent thrives indoors when given adequate light and proper care.
How do I propagate Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’?
Propagation is usually done through stem cuttings or leaf divisions. Allow cuttings to dry and form a callous before replanting.
Is Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ pet-friendly?
Yes, it is generally non-toxic to pets.
Learn More About Portulacaria afra Care
For detailed care instructions and expert advice on maintaining Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’, visit our Portulacaria afra Care Guide.
Ready to Add a Touch of Natural Elegance?
Bring home Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’ today and let its unique, variegated beauty transform your indoor space.
Order Yours NowHow to take care of Portulacaria afra ‘Medio-picta’
Sun: Direct to Indirect
Sun: Direct to Indirect
Light: Bright
Light: Bright
Water: Low
Water: Low
Humidity: Low
Humidity: Low
Pet Friendly: Caution
Pet Friendly: Caution
Pro Tip
Pro Tip
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
Delivery Policy for Plant Condition
"I have only received part of my order. What to do?
No worries if you've only got part of your order! Our plants come from different nurseries and might arrive in separate shipments, typically 1-2 days apart. It's all part of ensuring your green friends reach you in top-notch condition!
If you do not receive the remaining packages within 48 hours contact support at info@mygreenscape.ca
What is the Life Time Support?
Absolutely! Lifetime support means you can count on us whenever you have questions or uncertainties about your plant. Whether you're puzzled by its behavior or just want to ensure it's thriving, we're here for you. Connect with us on Instagram @mygreenscapeto or shoot us an email at support@mygreenscape.ca.
When it comes to our guarantee for plants shipped with standard or express, rest assured that we offer a 30-day happy healthy plant guarantee on all such shipments. This ensures that your plants are covered for 30 days after delivery, giving you peace of mind regarding their condition. If you have any concerns within this period, feel free to reach out to us for assistance.
For further details, please visit our Local Delivery, Store Pickup, Standard Shipping Guide Page.
What to expect
What to expect
Your plant will arrive in a standard nursery pot, typically 0.5" - 1" smaller than the stated size to seamlessly fit into your chosen decorative pot. Washable Paper Planter Bags are available for separate purchase.
Just like nature intended, each plant is unique, showcasing natural variations in size, shape, and characteristics. Our commitment is to deliver a plant that closely resembles the one featured on our website, matching your chosen size, and with the potential to thrive happily in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Certainly! If you're pondering about ordering plants online, you're not alone. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions. Check out our FAQ section here for quick answers! Happy planting!
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Plant & Pot Size Chart
Choosing the right pot size for your plants can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to gardening. But fear not! Our pot sizes chart can help you find the perfect match for your plants, ensuring they have enough space to grow and thrive. With our guide, you'll be able to confidently choose the right pot size and plant variety for your gardening needs.
Plant Pot Size Guide.

Extra Small | 7-10 cm | 2.5 - 3 inches |
Small | 11-12 cm | 3.5 - 4 inches |
Medium | 14-17 cm | 5 - 6 inches |
Large | 19-21 cm | 8 - 10 inches |
Extra Large | 24-27 cm | 12 - 14 inches |
All sizes are specified in product details.
Your Complete Guide to Pot Sizes: What Size Should You Choose?
When selecting a pot for your plant, it's important to find the right size. But with all the different options out there, how do you know which one is best? We're here to help!
MyGreenscape's pot sizes chart is a great resource for finding your perfect fit. Our easy-to-read chart takes out all the guesswork and helps you quickly choose the right size for your plant.
Smaller pots are best for seedlings or small plants just starting out. These tend to be shallow but wide, allowing enough room for the roots of the young plant but not too much where they get overcrowded. Medium-sized pots are ideal when your plant has grown from its infancy and is ready for more space. These are deeper and wider than small pots, so that it can accommodate larger root systems - making sure your plant gets enough nourishment while still giving it breathing room. Large pots are top choice if you have an established plant in need of lots of space - think trees and large shrubs! The spacious depth and width allow plenty of room for deep root systems without struggling for air or light.
No matter what size you choose, MyGreenscape has got you covered, with our pot sizes chart guaranteeing you find the perfect fit every time!
Winter Shipping Protection
Winter Shipping Protection
We take extra care with each package during the colder months. For destinations experiencing cold weather, we provide insulated packaging and heat packs as needed to protect your plants from freezing temperatures. With Winter Shipping Protection, your plants are equipped to arrive safe and sound, even in winter’s chill.
Care Guide
Care Guide
Explore essential care tips. check out our Comprehensive Resource for Indoor Plant Care.


WATERING MADE EASY
Check soil moisture before watering and use a potting mix that drains well. It’s the secret to healthy, happy plants!
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