How to Grow and Care for Jade Plants
About Jade Plant
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) grows 1 to 6 feet tall and is hardy in USDA zones 11 to 12. Most gardeners grow it as a houseplant. It needs medium water and well-drained soil.
The glossy green leaves of ‘Crassula ovata,’ most commonly known as the ‘Jade Plant,’ bring to mind the exquisite gemstone for which this plant is named. Reminiscent of a miniature tree, succulent branches topped with clusters of the gem-like leaves extend from a gnarly, leathery main trunk. The smooth, jade-green succulent leaves are oval in shape and are arranged in opposite pairs at the ends of multiple branches. With sufficient sunlight, tinges of red or pink develop around the leaf margins. Clusters of small, pink or white, star-shaped flowers appear in winter, when the plant is grown under ideal conditions. Longer winter evenings provide the extended period of darkness necessary for the plant to bloom. When ‘Jade’ is really happy, the sweet-smelling flowers may blanket the entire plant so densely as to hide the foliage. If grown outdoors, the fragrant flowers attract beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to the garden. The pollinated flowers develop into tiny seed capsules at the end of the blooming period. Jade is highly valued as an ornamental houseplant, and also as a landscape plant in mild areas within USDA hardiness zones 11-12. Native to the southern coast of Africa, Jade thrives in environmental conditions similar to the dry, rocky hillsides of its natural habitat. In the wild, the plant can develop into a small, evergreen shrub up to six feet in height. Fortunately, Jade easily adapts to life as a container or houseplant, where it thrives near a sunny window in the warm, dry conditions of most homes. It is important to know that the plant is toxic to pets and humans and should never be eaten. The botanical name, “Crassula,” translates from Latin to “thick or fat,” and the term “ovata,” means “egg-shaped,” in reference to the plant’s thick, succulent, oval leaves. Jade is regarded as a symbol of good luck and prosperity in cultures around the world. The lovely Jade plant effortlessly delivers a tropical feel and lush beauty to any “lucky” home or landscape.
When to Plant Jade Plants
Jade plants are houseplants and can be potted any time of year. Repot in spring, only when the plant becomes top-heavy or root-bound.
How to Plant Jade Plants
Jade plants thrive in partially shaded areas of the landscape receiving 2-4 hours of sunlight daily. The plants require loamy, well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH between 7.4 and 7.8. A gritty potting mix specifically for cacti and succulents is ideal. Jades are most easily propagated from leaf or stem cuttings simply pressed into soil until they exhibit new growth. The cutting should be allowed to dry on a windowsill for a few days so that the cut end can heal before planting. Cuttings root most easily in summer. Jade plants may also be grown from seed, ideally sown in spring or summer.
Jade Plant Care
Jade plants require water and plenty of light, whether grown indoors or out. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between each watering and never let the plant to sit in water. Overwatering causes the leaves to drop and the roots and stem to rot. However, drought can result in stunted growth, leaf drop, and death to the plant. Jade should be watered when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, which may mean they will require water every 7-10 days during the heat of summer. Watering should be reduced in winter to once every two weeks, or so. If the plant becomes long and “leggy,” or stretches in an attempt to reach the light, it is not receiving enough sunlight. However, if sunlight is too strong, the leaves may sunburn, and brown patches may appear. Plants may be brought indoors at the end of summer, placed near a sunny window, and watered sparingly. If provided with complete darkness at night, the plant may become inclined to bloom. Ideally, room temperatures should remain between 60- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit, and no cooler than 50 degrees. Jade should be repotted in spring or summer if the plant becomes rootbound.
Fertilizing Jade Plants
Jade plants benefit from the light application of a balanced 10-10-10 houseplant fertilizer, or ideally, a fertilizer specifically for succulent plants. Jade can be fertilized once a month during the spring, summer, and fall growing seasons. It is important to carefully read and follow the directions on the product label before using fertilizer.
Pruning Jade Plants
Jade benefits from pruning for an attractive, rounded shape and vigorous growth. Stems should be cutback to a lateral branch to encourage the development of a sturdy trunk and encourage root growth.
Jade Plant Pests and Diseases
Although Jade is rarely affected by any serious pests, mealy bugs occasionally appear as tiny white puffs on the stems and base of the leaves. These should be gently removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Spider mites also may show up and can be treated with a careful spray of horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, according to the directions on the product label.
Are Jade Plants Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes. PlantTAGG does not rate jade plant as pet-friendly, and the ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs and cats. Eating it can cause vomiting and incoordination. If you think a pet has eaten a toxic plant, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
Jade Plant FAQs
How often should I water a jade plant?
Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry, usually every two to three weeks, and less in winter. Wrinkled leaves mean it is thirsty; soft, yellow leaves mean too much water.
How do I propagate a jade plant?
Let a stem cutting or single leaf dry for a few days until the cut end callouses, then set it on dry succulent mix and water lightly once roots form.
Why is my jade plant dropping leaves?
Overwatering, a sudden move or cold drafts are the usual causes. Keep it in a bright spot and let the soil dry out between waterings.
Search thousands of plants for your zone with PlantTAGG Plant Search
The free PlantTAGG app gives you care reminders matched to your location and weather, plant ID and photo diagnosis, and answers to your gardening questions from Ask Emily.