Upcoming Events: Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Plant Stake Stained Glass Workshop Sunday Sept. 27th @ 2pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm / Intro to Stained Glass October 3rd @ 2 pm
Jade Plant is a classic succulent prized for its thick, glossy, oval-shaped leaves and sturdy, tree-like growth habit. Its fleshy green leaves grow along branching stems that gradually become woody with age, allowing mature specimens to resemble miniature trees. With proper care, Jade Plants can live for decades and develop into substantial specimens, making them popular as traditional houseplants as well as bonsai-style plants.
The proper botanical name is Crassula ovata, commonly called Jade Plant, Money Plant, Lucky Plant, or Money Tree. It is native to southern Africa. It should not be confused with Portulacaria afra, which is sometimes called Dwarf Jade or Mini Jade but is an entirely different plant.
Jade Plant does best in very bright light with some direct sunlight. Indoors, place it near a bright window where it can receive several hours of gentle direct sun. Strong light encourages compact growth, sturdy stems, and healthy foliage. Some plants may develop attractive reddish margins around their leaves when receiving abundant light.
Allow the potting mix to dry completely or almost completely between waterings, then water thoroughly and allow all excess water to drain. Its thick leaves and stems store significant amounts of moisture, making overwatering a much greater concern than occasional dryness. Reduce watering during cooler months and periods of slower growth.
Use a very well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix in a container with drainage. Adding pumice, perlite, lava rock, coarse sand, or other mineral amendments can improve drainage and airflow around the roots. Avoid dense soil that remains wet for extended periods.
Jade Plant prefers warm temperatures and low to moderate humidity. Average household humidity is generally suitable. Protect it from prolonged cold temperatures and cold, wet conditions.
This plant develops a slow to moderately growing, branching and tree-like habit. Regular pruning can encourage additional branching and help create a fuller, more compact specimen. Stem and leaf cuttings can also be used for propagation once the cut surfaces have been allowed to dry and callus.
Mature Jade Plants grown under favorable conditions may produce clusters of small, star-shaped white to pale pink flowers. Flowering is more common on older plants receiving abundant light and appropriate seasonal changes.
Jade Plant is toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Ingestion can cause vomiting, lethargy, loss of coordination, and other signs of gastrointestinal or neurological upset. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.
Upcoming Events: Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Plant Stake Stained Glass Workshop Sunday Sept. 27th @ 2pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm / Intro to Stained Glass October 3rd @ 2 pm
