Crassula ovata aka Jade Plant

Taxonomy

Crassula ovata, also known as jade plant, lucky plant, money plant or money tree, is a popular succulent that is native to the arid regions of South Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula. It is a bushy evergreen sub-shrub that grows slowly, reaching up to 2m in height. The plant features rounded fleshy dark green leaves, often with red edges, and flat clusters of small starry white or light pink flowers that bloom in late summer. As a houseplant, the jade plant is highly sought-after due to its low maintenance requirements, thriving in various indoor conditions with minimal watering. While it is sometimes referred to as the money tree, it is important to note that Pachira aquatica also shares this nickname. With its unique appearance, resembling small green minerals, the jade plant adds a touch of elegance to any indoor space. Although it is a flowering species, the plant rarely blooms, usually only occurring within the first 6-10 years of its life when properly cared for.

Common names

Jade Plant, Money Tree

How to care for Jade Plant

Difficulty

Caring for Jade Plant is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

Water

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

Soil

When growing the Jade Plant, it's important to use a potting soil that is well-draining and does not retain excessive moisture. An optimal soil mix should contain a high proportion of perlite or vermiculite for good drainage and some organic matter for nourishment. Simply add a few scoops of perlite to regular cactus soil to achieve this.

Lighting

Jade Plant 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 Money Tree is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Humidity

Jade Plant plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.

Fertilizer

The Jade Plant grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Jade Plant’s native range is South Africa.


More info:
Wikipedia