Jade Plant
Also known as
Money Plant (Jade), Lucky Plant, Money Tree (Jade), Friendship Tree, Jade Tree
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Crassula ovata, commonly known as the jade plant, is an evergreen succulent shrub native to southern Africa. It forms a woody, tree-like structure with thick, glossy, opposite leaves that store water, enabling exceptional drought tolerance. Mature plants develop sturdy, gray-brown trunks and branching heads that can be pruned to create bonsai-like forms. In high light, leaf margins often blush red; in midwinter, older plants may produce clusters of small, starry, white to pale pink flowers when nights are cool and days are bright. As a CAM photosynthesizer, it opens stomata at night to conserve moisture. Jade plants are long-lived and forgiving, provided they grow in a sharply draining, mineral-rich mix and are watered sparingly. They are sensitive to prolonged cold and excessive soil moisture, which can cause root rot. Indoors, they thrive in bright windows and adapt well to container culture. Pests are uncommon but may include mealybugs and scale, especially under low light or overfertilized conditions.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Jade Plant
Water
Water deeply using the soak-and-dry method: saturate the mix, then allow it to dry almost completely before the next watering. In bright, warm conditions, this may be every 10–21 days; in winter or low light, often every 3–5 weeks. Check by feeling 2–3 inches deep or by weight; leaves should feel firm, not squishy. Always empty saucers, and never water on a fixed schedule. Reduce watering after repotting until new roots form.
Light
Provide very bright light: indoors, 4–6 hours of direct sun near a south or west window, or strong grow lights delivering about 10,000–20,000 lux (900–1,900 foot-candles) for 12–14 hours. Acclimate slowly before moving to stronger sun to prevent scorch. Outdoors in frost-free climates (USDA 10–11), give morning sun and afternoon bright shade, or full sun with gradual acclimation. Insufficient light causes leggy growth; high light promotes compact form and red leaf margins.
Nutrients
Fertilize sparingly during active growth (spring through early fall). Use a low-nitrogen, cactus/succulent fertilizer or a balanced formula diluted to 1/4–1/2 strength, applied every 4–8 weeks after a thorough watering. Avoid feeding in winter or when light and temperatures are low. Excess nitrogen promotes soft, leggy growth and increases rot risk. Periodically flush the pot to prevent salt buildup, and ensure the medium is gritty and low in organics so nutrients are not retained excessively.
Temperature
Ideal temperatures are 65–80°F (18–27°C) by day and 50–60°F (10–16°C) at night. Brief dips to 40–45°F (4–7°C) are tolerated if soil is dry, but frost will damage tissues. Prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C) is manageable with shade, airflow, and less frequent watering. For best growth, keep above 50°F (10°C) and avoid sudden swings. Cooler, bright conditions in fall and winter help set flower buds.
