A robust shrubby succulent with thick woody stems and glossy oval jade-green leaves often edged in red, bearing clusters of starry white-pink flowers in winter. An enduring easy-care container classic.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 1.5 m H × 1 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Jade Plant
Botanically, Crassula ovata is a slow-growing succulent in the Crassulaceae family. It reaches around 1.5 m tall and 1 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White and pink flowers appear in winter.
Where to grow Jade Plant
Jade Plant suits Mediterranean, warm-temperate, subtropical and arid and semi-arid climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Jade Plant does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Jade Plant is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Jade Plant after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Jade Plant in the garden
Jade Plant earns its place for pots and courtyard containers, a feature or specimen planting and bonsai culture. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Jade Plant with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and Mediterranean climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew.
Buying Jade Plant
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