Crassula arborescens undulatifolia aka Ripple Jade

Taxonomy

Crassula arborescens undulatifolia, also known as ripple jade or curly jade, is a shrub-like succulent that can reach up to 60cm in height. It features stout, branched stems and fleshy, wavy leaves that often have red margins. This unusual foliage houseplant thrives in sunny spots and is incredibly low maintenance. Native to a small region in South Africa, plants in the Crassula genus exhibit a remarkable diversity in size and color. The ripple jade plant, in particular, has compact, rounded heads atop sturdy branches, giving it a bonsai-like appeal. With proper care, it can grow into a rounded shrub, reaching heights of 3 to 4 feet. The twisted and erect bluish leaves may display purple edging when grown in the right conditions. Ensure the plant receives ample sunlight and is planted in a pot with a drainage hole for optimal happiness.

Common names

Ripple Jade, Curly Jade, Crassula Arborescens Undulatifolia

How to care for Ripple Jade

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Ripple Jade is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Ripple Jade does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

To keep your Ripple Jade healthy, it's important to use a potting soil that won't retain too much moisture. A soil that drains well and contains perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. Adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store is an easy way to create this type of soil mix.

Lighting

Ripple Jade requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Curly Jade is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Humidity

Ripple Jade prefers dry environments, so misting the plant to provide extra humidity and allow water to linger on the leaves can create an ideal environment for fungi that can be harmful.

Fertilizer

The Ripple Jade is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Region of origin

Ripple Jade’s native range is South Africa.


More info:
Wikipedia