Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ is a shrubby, semi‑woody succulent from South Africa, grown for its small, round leaves marked in green and creamy white. The variegation becomes brighter and can even blush pink when the plant receives strong light, giving it a colourful, ornamental look. Stems are reddish when young and gradually turn grey with age, creating a tree‑like structure over time. Outdoors in warm climates it can reach 2.4–3.6 m tall and 1.2–1.8 m wide, but in containers or indoor settings it usually stays much smaller, around 0.6–0.9 m, forming a compact, branching shrub.
 
This species thrives in bright, indirect light, though it can tolerate some direct sun. Strong light helps maintain tight growth and vivid variegation, while too much intense afternoon sun may scorch the leaves. Indoors, a south‑ or west‑facing window suits it well. It is highly drought‑tolerant and prefers a soak‑and‑dry watering rhythm: water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Overwatering is the main risk, as the plant is prone to root rot in wet or poorly drained soil. During winter, watering should be reduced significantly.
 
Portulacaria afra ‘Variegata’ prefers warm conditions and is not frost‑tolerant, with damage occurring below –1 °C. It adapts well to dry indoor air and benefits from a gritty, fast‑draining mix such as cactus compost with added perlite or pumice. Its resilience, ease of care, and striking foliage make it popular for bonsai, mixed succulent plantings, and bright indoor displays
 
Plants may differ slightly from the stock image