Scientific Name
Portulacaria pygmaea Pillans
Common Name(s)
Pygmy Porkbush
Synonym(s)
Ceraria pygmaea
Scientific Classification
Family: Portulacaceae
Subfamily: Portulacarioideae
Genus: Portulacaria
Etymology
The specific epithet "pygmaea" (pronounced "POO-mil-uh") means "of or pertaining to a pygmy or dwarf; short; of reduced stature" and refers to the size of this species.
Origin
Portulacaria pygmaea is native to South Africa and Namibia.
Description
Portulacaria pygmaea, formerly known as Ceraria pygmaea, is a dwarf, dioecious succulent with a tuberous rootstock and small branches that are woody at the base and spread and often hang, staying close to the soil. The tuber can grow up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The leaves are thick, fleshy, glabrous, blue-green at first, later yellowish-green, and fall off almost to the touch. They can measure up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) in length and 0.4 inches (1 cm) in diameter.
The tiny flowers are white to pale pink and appear in terminal clusters of 2 to 6.
How to Grow and Care for Portulacaria pygmaea
Light: This plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily but can tolerate partial shade. If grown indoors, place it in a sunny window.
Soil: It is essential to have well-draining soil for a healthy plant. While many growers make their own soil mix, commercial soil for succulents with extra perlite or another grit will also work fine.
Hardiness: Portulacaria pygmaea thrives in warm, sunny climates and can tolerate light frost. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (-3.9°C to 10°C).
Watering: In spring and fall, water thoroughly and wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Water less during winter when growth slows down significantly. During the summer, when the plant is usually dormant, water it only enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: Ceraria pygmaea is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal feeding. However, it will benefit from a small amount of organic fertilizer during the growing season.
Repotting: It is best to repot this plant every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes top-heavy, even though it does not mind being root-bound. Repotting is recommended during the summer.
Propagation: Although it can be grown from seed, Portulacaria pygmaea is typically started from stem cuttings. Always take cuttings when the plant is actively growing.
Toxicity of Portulacaria pygmaea
Portulacaria pygmaea is non-toxic to both pets and humans.
Links
- Back to genus Portulacaria
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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