Portulacaria afra (L.) Jacq.: Variability and distribution

Abstract

Portulacaria afra (L.) Jacq. has a widespread distribution in South Africa. There is a marked leaf size gradient from the southern to the northern part of its distribution. Small leaves in the south is understood as a stress tolerance strategy in hot, dry conditions, where large-leaved representatives are growing in more mesic climates where high and predictable precipitation during the summer months greatly reduce the probability of water stress in the growing season.