Cork Bark Dwarf Jade (Portulacaria afra 'Cork Bark') Starter
This unique cultivar of Portulacaria afra combines the small leaves and drought tolerance of Dwarf Jade with an added bonus—a more textured, corky bark that develops in time. It’s a standout choice for anyone wanting a low-maintenance tropical bonsai with early visual age and strong character.
As a Bonsai:
Like standard Dwarf Jade, this variety is very forgiving, making it great for beginners or growers in hot, dry climates. The cork bark adds character, and the plant responds well to pruning, wiring, and defoliation. Perfect for informal upright, broom, or naturalistic styles.
📢 This is a tropical species—it thrives outdoors during the warm months and should be brought indoors when night temperatures fall below ~50°F. For best growth, keep it in full sun during the growing season.
Plant Features:
- Hardiness Zone: 10–11 (tropical; protect from frost)
- Sun Requirements: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty mix
- Water Needs: Low; drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out between watering
- Special Features: Fast development, corky bark, easy care tropical bonsai
Cork-bark Dwarf Jade
As part of their training for future bonsai, our starters and stock trees are periodically pruned or trunk-chopped to encourage strong structure and desirable growth. If you’re purchasing for landscape use and prefer trees that have not been recently pruned or chopped, feel free to contact us before ordering to check the current status of the species you’re interested in!
This is a Tropical Species and Requires a heat pack for shipping during winter months (~November through March). Even if your local weather is mild, all trees ship out of Missouri and may also pass through cold regions during transit.
We don't profit from these heat packs, they're simply to make sure your trees arrive safely! And, if you add one to your order during a warm spell and its unnecessary, don't worry, we'll automatically refund you for the heat pack. Better safe than sorry!