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Four or more hours of direct sun (right in the window where sun actually hits the leaves. A strong grow light 4-6 inches away can substitute) is ideal; a south- or east-facing window is best. Plants with adequate light develop red-tinged leaf edges and compact, bushy growth. In insufficient light leaves stay plain dark green and stems become leggy and drooping. This is a sun-lover masquerading as a low-light plant.Light
Allow soil to dry thoroughly between waterings during the growing season (spring and summer). In fall and winter, water even less frequently. Jade is highly susceptible to root rot - overwatering kills more jade plants than any other cause. When in doubt, water less.Water
Tolerates low humidity well, which is unusual among tropical houseplants. Average indoor air is fine. No humidity management needed under normal household conditions.Humidity
65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day, 50-55°F (10-13°C) at night for best results. Cooler nights in fall combined with dry conditions can encourage the rare indoor flowering event. Tolerates brief temperatures near freezing but should not experience hard frost.Temperature
easyDifficulty
Jade Plant

Jade Plant

Crassula argentea

Easy

Crassula argentea (most commonly sold as Crassula ovata) is one of the most popular houseplants in the world, and with good reason — it is nearly indestructible, grows slowly into a handsome small tree shape with a thick trunk and glossy oval leaves, and can live for decades with minimal fuss. In feng shui tradition it is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, which may or may not be why it appears on virtually every office desk in the known world. Give it bright light, well-draining soil, and a light hand with the watering can, and it will outlast several generations of other houseplants.

Jade Plant
Abu Shawka via Wikimedia Commons (public domain)
Jade Plant
Abu Shawka via Wikimedia Commons (public domain)
Care Guide

How to grow Jade Plant

Light

Four or more hours of

Water

Allow soil to dry thoroughly

Humidity

Tolerates low humidity well, which

Temperature

65-75°F

Soil

Well-draining, gritty soil is essential.

Propagation

One of the easiest plants

Common Problems

Root rot from overwatering is

Did You Know

Fun Facts

Crassula argentea has been given so many different Latin names over the years — including C. argentea, C. ovata, C. portulaca, and C. obliqua — that even botanical databases still disagree on which is correct. C. ovata is currently the accepted name, but nurseries sell it under all of them.

Pet Safety

Toxic to pets

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses according to the ASPCA. Toxic principles are unknown. Clinical signs include vomiting, depression, and incoordination. Keep away from pets. The sap can also cause dermatitis on human skin with repeated exposure.

Sources

  1. Jade Plant - ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants (opens in new tab)Reference
  2. Jade Plant - ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants (opens in new tab)Reference
  3. Jade Plant Care Guide - The Old Farmer's Almanac (opens in new tab)Reference
  4. Jade Plant Care Guide - The Old Farmer's Almanac (opens in new tab)Reference
  5. Crassula argentea Jade Plant - University of Florida IFAS Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
  6. Crassula argentea Jade Plant - University of Florida IFAS Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
  7. Jade Plant, Crassula ovata - Wisconsin Horticulture Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
  8. Jade Plant, Crassula ovata - Wisconsin Horticulture Extension (opens in new tab)University Extension
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