Crassula Ovata Care Guide

Crassula ovata

The Crassula ovata, often celebrated as the Jade Plant, is a beloved succulent renowned for its striking appearance and symbolic significance. This resilient plant is admired for its lush, glossy leaves that are rich in color and thick in texture, resembling precious jade stones.

Hardiness Zone

Zones: 10a - 12b

Ligthing Needs

Sun, Bright Shade

Soil Needs

Well-Drained, Rich, Gritty

Flowering Season

Winter

Water Requirements

Drought Tolerant, Dry in Between Watering

Succulent Grow Location

Indoors, Outdoors

Propagation Method

Seed, Cuttings

Toxicity

Cats, Dogs

ALso Known AS

Jade Plant, Jade Tree, Money Tree, Money Plant, Dollar Plant, Japanese Rubber, Friendship Tree, Lucky Plant, Baby Jade

Origin

South Africa

leaf shape

Thick, glossy, and oval-shaped, resembling jade stones.

difficulty

Great for Beginners

Crassula ovata is also known as jade plant are one of the most popular succulents because they are easy to care for and to propagate. This succulent is an ideal choice for beginners.

The leaves of Crassula ovata are oval shaped and a bright jade green. Some varieties develop red edges when exposed to bright sunlight. They grow in small to medium-sized shrubs or trees in their natural habitat of South Africa. Crassula ovata stems are thick and grey-green. The stems become woody with age and its bark peels in horizontal strips. They can grow to be 2 to 4 feet in height once mature.

 

Water Needs

Prefers to be dry in between watering. Crassula ovata is drought tolerant and can go long periods without water.

TEMPERATURE / Hardiness

Zones: 10a - 12b

Needs protection from the cold. Bring indoors once weather drops below 50°f.

Light

Crassula ovata grows well indoors if given adequate light. Shield from the intense sun when outdoors.

dormancy

Winter

Size

In a typical indoor setting, a Jade Plant can reach heights of 2 to 4 feet (60 to 120 centimeters), but it has the potential to grow taller over many years. In terms of width, it often matches its height, forming a rounded, tree-like shape as it matures.

Toxicity

CatsDogs

Crassula ovata is toxic to horses and toxic to humans. It can cause skin irritation and digestive symptoms. Animals may exhibit excessive drooling, weakness, and lethargy.

flowers

Winter

Under the right conditions, Crassula ovata produces flowers during colder months. The flowers are star-shaped and pink tinged white and grow in ball shaped clusters. Crassula ovata ‘Pink Beauty’ produces pink flowers.

Soil

Jade plants can stay in the same container for years. Repot if it becomes root bound or to refresh the soil.

Feeding

Fertilize sparingly in spring and summer; avoid overfeeding.

Flowering Crassula ovata
Crassula ovata Succulent Care
Crassula ovata Close Up Of Leaves

how do you propagate Crassula ovata?

propagated from:

SeedCuttings

Propagates from leaves and stems. Remove a leaf or stem with a clean straight cut, leave to callous for a few days, then place in the soil until roots appear.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Crassula ovata

What is the ideal lighting for a Jade Plant?

Jade Plants thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch their leaves. A south-facing window with filtered light is ideal. In low light conditions, they may become leggy and lose their vibrant color.

Can Jade Plants be grown outdoors?

Yes, Jade Plants can be grown outdoors in regions with mild, frost-free climates (USDA zones 10-11). They should be placed in a spot with partial sun exposure and protected from harsh midday sun and freezing.

Why are my Jade Plant's leaves falling off?

Leaf drop can be caused by overwatering, under watering, or a sudden change in the environment (like moving the plant to a new location). Assess your watering schedule and ensure the plant is in a stable environment with appropriate lighting.

Similar Topics in: Crassula, Crassulaceae