Plants | Shrubs/bushes

Emerald Elephant Carpet, scientifically known as Portulacaria afra ‘Prostrata’, is a low-growing, creeping succulent that serves as an excellent ground cover in drought-tolerant landscapes. It is a variation of the common Elephant Food Bush, featuring small, round, fleshy green leaves that grow densely along its reddish stems. This plant forms a lush, spreading mat of greenery, making it perfect for rock gardens, xeriscaping, or as an accent plant in containers. Its resilience in dry climates and ability to thrive in poor soil make it a favorite for water-wise gardens.

Type of Light: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Emerald Elephant Carpet thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. For best growth, plant it in a location where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.

Watering: Low Water Requirement
As a drought-tolerant succulent, Emerald Elephant Carpet requires infrequent watering. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. During cooler months, reduce watering further to prevent waterlogging.

Companion Planting:
Emerald Elephant Carpet pairs well with other low-water, sun-loving plants like Golden Barrel Cactus, Agave, and Sedum. Its trailing habit also makes it an excellent companion for taller succulents or shrubs like Ocotillo or Desert Spoon. When grown in containers, it combines beautifully with Jade Plant or Aloe, creating a visually appealing succulent arrangement.