Stephen Albert
Jade plant, Crassula, is a sturdy, adaptable house plant suited for small and large pots. In warm winter regions, it can grow to the size of a shrub or small tree.
Crassula is a genus of succulent herbs and shrubs, mostly from South Africa. They are sun lovers and thrive best in sandy loam with a small proportion of leafmold.
Crassula has opposite fleshy leaves and clusters of small white, rose, or yellow flowers.
During the growing season, Crassula may be watered freely, but in the resting period, they should be kept on the dry side.
Crassula are propagated by cuttings of stems and leaves.
Get to know Jade Plant
- Plant type: Succulent evergreen perennial
- Growing Zones and range: 8-11
- Hardiness:
- Height and width: 3 or 4 inches to 5 feet tall depending on age; slow grower
- Light: Bright, direct light is best; plants will tolerate medium light
- Temperature: Average household temperatures are best; 50°F to 80°F (10°-26°C)
- Foliage: Thick succulent leaves are jade green-tinged on edges with red; leaves are oval to 2 inches long.
- Flowers: Plant seldom blooms; blooms will come to plants in direct sun.
- Uses: Houseplant; in mild, arid climates can be grown outdoors as a specimen or in containers
- Botanical name: Crassula ovata
- Common name: Jade Plant
Where to plant Jade Plant
- Jade plant needs bright light. Leaf margins take on a reddish tinge when the plant is getting the ideal amount of light.
- Use a mix for cactus and succulents when potting jade plant; a blend of half perlite and half all-purpose potting mix.
How to water and feed Jade Plant
- Let the soil dry between waterings; avoid overwatering
- Fertilize jade plants every 3 months, except in winter.
Jade Plant care
- Pinch off new leaves growing along the main stem to give the plant a more treelike appearance.
- Weak or leggy growth indicates the plant is not getting enough light.
Jade Plant propagation
- New plants can be started from leaf cuttings.
- Allow new plants around the base of the main stem to grow and repot them.
Jade Plant varieties to grow
- ‘Crosby’s Dwarf’ is a low, compact grower.
- ‘Tricolor’ is green, white, and pinkish with clusters of pink, star-shaped flowers outdoors.
- Crassula argenta ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ has golden leaves.
