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Rainbow Elephant Bush Succulent Plant - Pet Safe Non-Toxic Vibrant Variegated Low-Maintenance Easy Care

Rainbow Elephant Bush Succulent Plant - Pet Safe Non-Toxic Vibrant Variegated Low-Maintenance Easy Care

$45.75 USD
$45.75 USD
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Shipping calculated at checkout.
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Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'

Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra 'Variegata'

Common Names: Rainbow Elephant Bush • Variegated Dwarf Jade • Tricolor Elephant Bush • Rainbow Spekboom

The Portulacaria afra 'Rainbow' dazzles with its spectacular variegated foliage featuring brilliant combinations of green, cream, white, and pink that create a living rainbow of color in a charming tree-like form. This extraordinary South African native showcases thick, glossy round leaves with stunning multicolored variegation that intensifies in bright light, while red-tinged stems add even more color drama, bringing year-round rainbow beauty and natural sculptural elegance to any indoor space.

This remarkable rainbow beauty combines breathtaking multicolored elegance with unmatched low-maintenance care, making it perfect for color enthusiasts, succulent collectors, or anyone seeking a vibrant statement plant that thrives on neglect. Enjoy year-round rainbow foliage that stores water efficiently while displaying ever-changing color combinations that shift with seasons and light - all with complete confidence around your beloved pets and family members.

Complete Care Guide

Light Requirements ▼
  • Bright, indirect light intensifies the vibrant rainbow variegation
  • South or west-facing windows provide ideal growing conditions
  • More light enhances pink and cream colors dramatically
  • Some direct sun brings out the most intense rainbow coloring
  • Tolerates lower light but colors may be less vibrant
Watering Instructions ▼
  • Water deeply but infrequently - allow soil to dry completely
  • Extremely drought-tolerant and thrives on neglect
  • Can survive weeks without water once established
  • Overwatering can reduce vibrant variegation
  • Water even less frequently in winter months
Humidity & Temperature ▼
  • Low humidity: 30-50% - thrives in dry conditions
  • Temperature range: 65-85°F (18-29°C) with excellent heat tolerance
  • Tolerates dry indoor air exceptionally well
  • Cooler temperatures may enhance pink coloring
  • Avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C)
Potting & Fertilizing ▼
  • Use well-draining cactus/succulent potting mix
  • Ensure excellent drainage with pots that have drainage holes
  • Feed sparingly - over-fertilizing can reduce variegation
  • Prefers to be slightly root-bound for best coloring
  • Repot only when severely overcrowded, every 3-4 years
Color Enhancement & Propagation ▼
  • Bright light and slight stress enhance rainbow coloring
  • Remove any all-green shoots to maintain variegation
  • Incredibly easy to propagate from colorful stem cuttings
  • Can be pruned and shaped like a rainbow bonsai tree
  • Fast-growing and extremely rewarding for color lovers

Styling Ideas for Your Rainbow Elephant Bush

Colorful Focal Points
Rainbow colors create stunning centerpieces
Bright Window Gardens
Best colors develop in sunny locations
Succulent Collections
Adds vibrant color to drought-tolerant displays
Rainbow Bonsai
Perfect for colorful miniature tree styling

Shipping & Potting Information

Plant Icon
Your plant ships in its current nursery pot and will need to be repotted into a decorative container of your choice. The beautiful ceramic pot shown in the product images is for styling inspiration only and is not included with your purchase. This allows you to select the perfect decorative pot that matches your home's unique style and décor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What creates the stunning rainbow variegation?
The rainbow variegation is a natural genetic variation that produces leaves with combinations of green, cream, white, and pink colors. The intensity of these colors changes with light exposure, temperature, and seasonal variations, creating an ever-changing rainbow display.
How do I maintain the vibrant rainbow colors?
Bright light is essential for maintaining vibrant variegation. More light intensifies the pink and cream colors, while some gentle stress (like slight drought or cooler temperatures) can enhance the rainbow effect. Remove any all-green shoots to maintain variegation.
Can I really neglect this colorful plant?
Yes! Rainbow Elephant Bush is one of the most forgiving colorful plants you can own. It actually develops better colors when slightly stressed by drought and bright light. The biggest mistake is overwatering - this rainbow beauty thrives on neglect.
Is this plant safe around pets and children?
Absolutely! Portulacaria afra is completely non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans, making it a perfect worry-free choice for families who want to enjoy its stunning rainbow variegated foliage and tree-like beauty safely throughout their home.
Will the colors change with seasons?
Yes! The rainbow colors naturally shift and intensify with changing light conditions and temperatures throughout the year. This creates a dynamic, ever-changing display that keeps your plant interesting and beautiful in all seasons.
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