Jade Plant
Crassula ovata
Crassula ovata
About this plant
Crassula ovata, commonly called jade plant, is a popular succulent with thick, glossy, oval-shaped leaves that look like jade stones. It grows as a small shrub and is often kept as a houseplant. Jade plants are known for their easy care and can live for many years. They sometimes produce small white or pink star-shaped flowers in winter or spring. Jade plants are often considered symbols of good luck and prosperity.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Crassula
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Saxifragales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa, Mozambique
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated worldwide as a houseplant; native to South Africa and Mozambique.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Rare
- Watering interval
- 10–21 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18–24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 10–12
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining succulent or cactus mix
Watering. Water only when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. Feed jade plants with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant rests.
Jade plants are tough and easy to care for. They prefer bright light and can tolerate some neglect. Overwatering is the most common problem, so let the soil dry out between waterings. They need minimal maintenance and occasional pruning to keep shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- winter–spring
Glossy, fleshy green leaves; small star-shaped white or pink flowers; attractive shrub form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Mildly toxic if ingested; may cause stomach upset in pets and children. Keep out of reach.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Crassula ovata, also known as jade plant, may cause mild skin irritation in some people if touched. It is not known to produce airborne pollen that causes allergies. To reduce risk, avoid direct skin contact if you have sensitive skin.
Common problems
Overwatering can cause root rot and leaf drop. Insufficient light may lead to leggy growth. Pests like mealybugs can occasionally appear.
Uses
Popular as an ornamental houseplant and bonsai subject; sometimes used in traditional medicine.
Notes
Prune to shape and remove leggy growth. Repot every 2–3 years in well-draining soil. Sensitive to overwatering and cold drafts.