Portulacaria afra Bonsai
Table of contents
Introduction
In my opinion this is the best beginner bonsai ever. You will not find a better plant for a beginner to Bonsai. They are bullet proof, and so easy to grow.
The Portulacaria afra is often referred to as a dwarf Jade plant. While they both originate from Southern Africa and they are both succulents, that’s all they have in common. They are not related. It is easy to see why it is called dwarf Jade though. It is very similar and who can remember Portulacaria afra, it is so hard to say and remember.
Why it is the best beginner bonsai ever
I still get excited about the Portulacaria afra and excited to introduce beginners to these plants for Bonsai. They are so easy to look after, whilst still teaching all the basics for Bonsai care.
They grow fast, really fast. The bonsai in the main picture top of page is around 7 years old. Within a couple of years you could have a bonsai to be proud of and show off to your family and friends.
Sure it does not have the prestige of a Pine or Juniper bonsai. But they require 10, 20 even 50 years before they are mature enough to start looking impressive.
This is why i recommend them for beginners, once you get a few quick wins with these easy and fast growing plants. Learn the basics and see what you can achieve, that’s when the Bonsai bug gets you. You will be going out and buying Junipers, Pines, Maples whatever you can get hold of once that bonsai bug gets you.
Where to start
It is found all over the world these days with a lot of plant nurseries stocking them. Especially in locations where it is warm and sunny that’s where they thrive.
The best place to buy one would be a Bonsai Nursery if your lucky enough to have one or more near you. That way all the hard work and early design is done for you. If your not that lucky or looking for a bit cheaper try your local nurseries.
I live in Adelaide, Australia and they are everywhere in front yards here, very popular. I am always checking out peoples front yards for interesting trees. Go armed with a small box of chocolates knock on the door and just ask if you can take some cuttings. I have never had anybody say no, they are happy that somebody is interested in something they have.
More often than not it is grown from cuttings, a single leaf will grow you a new plant but cuttings are best. They grow faster and are more reliable using stem cuttings.
Leave your cuttings for at least two days indoors away from direct sunlight before potting.
Quick Tips
Watering
Watering is the first and most important lesson a beginner faces at the start. That’s why i believe the Elephant bush is the best beginner bonsai. You can make mistakes and you wont be punished with a dead bonsai.
This plant is very forgiving and will teach you how to look at your bonsai and see what it needs. Elephant bush likes dry feet so don’t over water, keep an eye on the soil.
If the leaves have wrinkles it needs more water. Or if the leaves are plump and green your right on track. If the leaves are plump and green but you are getting some yellow patches on some of the leaves your probably over watering. Or you have poor drainage, and might be time to repot.
Sunlight and Temperature
It will grow just about anywhere it is very versatile and is good for indoors or outdoors. It’s most favourite place to live are warm conditions with plenty of direct sunlight. It will still grow in cool shady places just, not as fast.
It will not tolerate frost. So will need to be taken inside in a sunny spot in the house if you live in a frosty environment.
Pruning and Training
Pruning and training is very simple and that’s what makes them a great beginners bonsai. Training should be be done with wiring while the branch is still young and flexible. Pruning can be done all year round, I pinch prune if something looks out of place when I water.
But in summer time you won’t keep up and those scissors will need to come out. They grow very quick in the summer
Repotting
Repotting and root pruning should be done every 2 years for best results. Just like you prune and shape the top of the tree or plant the roots need the same attention. This is especially true for younger trees under 10 years old. Once they age this can be stretched out.
When choosing a pot for the Portulacaria afra (dwarf jade) you will need a wide base area. The leaves and trunk hold lots of water, so they can get top heavy.
Choose a Pot and soil mixture that has excellent drainage.