SafePlants

Crassula ovata: The Jade Plant

The Crassula ovata, commonly known as jade plant, is a popular succulent houseplant prized for its ease of care and longevity. Also known as friendship tree, lucky plant, or money tree, this plant has been a favorite for generations.

Considerations for Pets

• Jade plants possess fleshy oval leaves on thick stalks.
• The plant is known to have thick branches and smooth, oval-shaped leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Crassula ovata
• Family: Crassulaceae (stonecrop family)
• Common Names: Jade plant, friendship tree, lucky plant, money tree, dollar plant, Baby Jade, Dwarf rubber plant, Jade tree, Chinese rubber plant, Japanese rubber plant, Horseshoe Jade, Spoon Jade, Shrek Plant
• Alternative Scientific Name: Crassula argentea

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to South Africa.
• The jade plant can grow outside in Phoenix, but needs a warm micro-climate in winter and protection from direct sun in summer.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Succulent plant.
• Shrub-like form with thick branches and smooth, oval-shaped leaves.
• Grows to a height of up to 24 inches indoors, but can reach 5 feet tall.
• Produces small pink or white flowers.
• Leaves are fleshy and oval.
• The jade plant is a large, much-branched, hairless and floriferous shrub.

Quirky Facts

• The jade plant is known as the feng shui money plant, thought to bring good luck.
• In some cultures, people believe the plant brings money.

Cultivation

• Easy to grow indoors.
• Requires particular care.
• Prefers the sun.
• Water when dry.
• Provide bright or intense light.
• Keep the soil moderately dry.
• Grows well at room temperature.
• Extremely easy to propagate, especially in the summer.