Good Luck Mini Jade Plant (Portulacaria Afra Variegated)

Good Luck Mini Jade Plant (Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’) – Grow & Care Guide

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About the Plant

• Common Name: Good Luck Mini Jade Plant, Variegated Mini Jade, Rainbow Elephant Bush
• Botanical Name: Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’
• Plant Type: Succulent
• Growth Habit: Compact, bushy, bonsai-friendly
• Foliage: Small green leaves with creamy-white variegation and pink edges in bright light
• Air Purifying: Yes
• Pet Friendly: No, keep away from pets.

Pot Requirements

• Use a 4–8 inch pot with drainage holes.
• Terracotta pots are ideal as they help excess moisture evaporate.

Potting Mix

Use a well-draining succulent mix:

• 40% Garden soil
• 30% River sand or perlite
• 20% Cocopeat
• 10% Compost or vermicompost

Light

• Bright indirect light or 3–5 hours of morning sunlight.
• Avoid harsh afternoon sun during peak summer.
• More light enhances the variegation.

Watering

• Water only when the soil is completely dry.
• Summer: Every 7–10 days.
• Winter: Every 15–20 days.
• Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.

Temperature

• Ideal temperature: 18–32°C
• Protect from frost and temperatures below 10°C.

Fertilizer

• Feed once every 30–45 days during spring and summer.
• Use a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength or organic compost.
• Avoid excessive fertilizer.

Pruning

• Trim leggy branches to maintain a compact shape.
• Excellent for bonsai training and shaping.

Propagation

• Easily propagated from stem cuttings.
• Allow cuttings to dry for 1–2 days before planting in dry soil.
• Water lightly after roots begin to develop.