Elephant’s Food is a versatile succulent that has been known by many names around the world throughout its long reign of popularity. Originally from Africa, it is extremely drought, heat, and sun tolerant, while also accepting more moisture than our desert succulents. This plant’s segmented stems are bright red to reddish-brown; beautifully contrasting its rounded, fleshy, lime-green leaves.
If left to its own devices, Elephant’s Food develops a quirky, irregular form. It easily adapts to heavy pruning, however, and can be kept in containers as a bonsai or specimen plant, grown as a groundcover, and manicured into interesting architectural shapes. Cuttings are quick to root, allowing you to share your plant with friends or spread it around your garden!
Height: 12 feet (usually smaller in Tucson)
Width: 12 feet (usually smaller in Tucson)
Bloom color: Lavender Purple (rarely)
Flowering season: Late Spring, Early Summer
USDA minimum zone: 9
Cold hardiness: 25° F
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