Portulacaria afra 'Mediopicta' (Midstripe Rainbow Bush)

Midstripe Rainbow Bush is a succulent with genuine style. The small rounded leaves are a soft jade green with a creamy white stripe running down the center of each one, and the reddish stems add a warm contrast that makes the whole plant look like a miniature variegated tree. It is closely related to the elephant bush popular in succulent arrangements, sharing the same easy care and tolerance for neglect, but the variegation in 'Mediopicta' makes it considerably more decorative as a standalone plant.

Indoors, give it the brightest light you have, ideally a south- or west-facing window with direct sun for at least part of the day. It tolerates lower light but will grow slowly and may lose some of its variegation contrast. Water deeply and then let the soil dry out completely before watering again.

Midstripe Rainbow Bush is a forgiving, long-lived houseplant that takes well to bonsai-style training over time. It can also spend summers outdoors in a sheltered, sunny spot before coming inside for the winter.