Portulacia afra is the only species of this South African genus that is grown indoors. It is a slow-growing, low-growing succulent that is well suited for shaping a bonsai-style tree. At the age of 5 to 10 years, it reaches a height of only 10-15 cm. The plant has yellow flowers, but indoors, Portulacia afra blooms extremely rarely. It is grown for its beautiful leaves, which are especially good in the variegated form.
The plant looks great in a regular low pot.
Soil:
Fertile clay mixture for indoor plants or substrate with the addition of 1/3 coarse sand.
Lighting:
Full lighting. For good development, the plant needs sunlight every day for at least 2 hours.
Temperature:
In winter - not lower than 4° C. In summer, provide an influx of fresh air.
Watering:
In spring and summer, water the plant once every 2 weeks, in the hottest weather - weekly. In autumn, reduce watering and in winter, water only once a month so that the soil does not dry out.
Top dressing:
Apply high potassium fertilizer 2-3 times during the summer.
Formation:
Formation begins very early. All bonsai styles are used, especially popular are broom-shaped and straight vertical. Finger-thick branches can be formed with wire. Due to the rapid increase in thickness of shoots, there is a risk of wire growing into the bark, so it should be carefully monitored.
If the shoot is longer than 5 cm, it is shortened to 1-2 pairs of leaves. Shoots are left only in places where new branches are formed. The above applies to the top of the crown if you want to get a fairly tall bonsai. The pruning areas can be left untreated, as they dry out quickly, and the edges of the wounded surface tighten.
Purchasing a plant:
Portulacria is easily propagated by cuttings. Young plants can be purchased in flower shops. Good specimens are also sold in specialized shops.
Pests and diseases:
Powdery mildew and weevils may be present. Other problems may arise due to improper care of the plant.
