Money Plant, Lucky Plant, Friendship Tree
Plant Type
Perennial, Evergreen, Succulent, Houseplant, Drought-Tolerant, Low-Maintenance, Indoor, Outdoor.
Flowering or Non-Flowering
Yes, but rarely indoors.
Deciduous or Evergreen
Evergreen.
Pet Friendly or Toxic
Toxic to pets.
Introduction
Ready to jump into the world of succulents? Let’s talk about the Jade Plant (Crassula ovata), the overachiever of the plant world! It’s like that friend who’s always put together – resilient, good-looking, and doesn’t demand much attention. Perfect for those of us who sometimes forget we even have plants!
Description
Hailing from the sun-drenched landscapes of South Africa, the Jade Plant is a succulent that’s mastered the art of water conservation. It’s like a living, green camel, storing water in its thick, fleshy leaves for those “dry spells” (aka when we forget to water it for weeks).
This hardy little trooper boasts oval-shaped, glossy green leaves that give it a tree-like appearance, earning it the nickname “Dwarf Rubber Plant.” But don’t let the “dwarf” part fool you – with proper care, your Jade can grow into a impressive, branching plant that’ll make your other houseplants green with envy.
In its native habitat, the Jade Plant can reach heights of up to 10 feet but don’t worry, your indoor version will likely top out at a more manageable 3-5 feet. It will have all the majesty of a tree in a compact, apartment-friendly package.
Jade Plants have been cultivated for centuries and are considered symbols of good luck in many cultures. In feng shui, they’re believed to attract wealth and prosperity, hence the nickname “Money Plant.” So, who knows? Maybe your new Jade will bring you some extra cash… or at least save you money on your water bill!
Jade Plant Care Instructions
Indoor or Outdoor:
Both but primarily grown as a house plant.
Sun or Shade:
Your Jade Plant is a sun-lover but it’s not picky. It’ll thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. A south or west-facing window is ideal if indoors. Just remember, too much direct sun can scorch its leaves – even succulents can get sunburned!
USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11 for outdoor growth.
Temperature range: 65-75°F (18-24°C), can tolerate down to 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements:
Soil type: Well-draining, sandy soil so that it doesn’t get waterlogged.
Pot Size and Repotting:
Potting mix: Use a commercial cactus/succulent mix or make your own by mixing regular potting soil with sand and perlite (2:1:1 ratio).
Pot size: Choose a pot only slightly larger than the root ball, with drainage holes.
Repotting: Every 2-3 years or when root-bound. Spring is the best time for a Jade Plant spa day!
Growth Rate and Size:
Jade Plants are slow but steady growers. Indoors, they can typically reach 3-5 feet tall over many years. Patience is key – your Jade is in it for the long haul!
Watering:
Your Jade Plant really shines in the low-maintenance department. Water thoroughly, but only when the soil is completely dry. In spring and summer, this might be every 7-14 days; in winter, maybe once a month. Remember, it’s better to underwater than overwater – your Jade would rather be thirsty than drowning.
Fertilizer:
Feed your Jade Plant a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once every 3-4 months during the growing season. Think of it as giving your plant a light snack rather than a full meal – Jades are much like that friend who’s always on a diet!
Propagation:
Propagating Jade Plants is so easy, it almost feels like cheating. Simply snip off a leaf or stem, let it callous over for a few days, then pop it in some soil. Voila! Baby Jade. It’s like plant cloning for beginners.
Pests and Diseases
Jade Plants are quite hardy but they can pick up mealybugs or scale insects. Inspect for cottony growths or brown bumps on stems and leaves. Wipe any off with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab. For fungal issues, reduce watering and increase air circulation. Prevention is better than cure – it pays to check often.
Additional Tips
Gentle Introduction: When bringing your Jade home, give it time to acclimate. It’s like moving to a new city – it takes time to get used to the neighborhood!
Pest Patrol: Make it a habit to check your Jade’s leaves and stems while you’re having your morning coffee. Early detection is key to keeping pests at bay.
Watering Wisdom: Before you water, stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it’s dry, it’s drinking time. If not, let it be – your Jade would rather be parched than waterlogged.
Sunbathing Schedule: Give your Jade a quarter turn each week so all sides get equal sun exposure. It’s like making sure you don’t have tan lines, but for plants!
Prune for Perfection: Feel free to snip off any dead or yellowing leaves – it’ll look fresher and encourage new growth.
Patience Pays Off: Don’t fret if your Jade doesn’t seem to be growing quickly. These plants are the tortoises of the plant world – slow and steady wins the race.
Desert Vibes: To recreate your Jade’s natural habitat, place it near a sunny window and use pebbles or decorative rocks on top of the soil. Not only does this look great, but it also helps retain heat and reduce water evaporation.
You’re now equipped with all the knowledge you need to be a fantastic Jade Plant parent. Remember, these resilient succulents are all about relaxed and easy living. So take a deep breath, channel your inner zen, and enjoy watching your Jade Plant thrive. Who knows? With a little luck (and the right care), your Jade might just bring some extra green into your life – both in your home and in your wallet!
I’d love you to share your advice about this plant…and photo if you have any. You can send through at the bottom of this page and I will publish them promptly! ↓↓
Plant Details
Care Difficulty: easy
Watering Frequency: weekly
Light Requirements: high
Plant Personality
Cheerful, adaptable and strong
User Tips
Jade Plant
Very tough cookie.
Submitted by: Carlos Alcaraz
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