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© Ellie Goossens, some rights reserved (CC-BY-NC) · iNaturalist
Growing Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones
10 - 11These zones indicate the coldest temperatures this plant can typically survive.
What's my zone? →Frost Tolerancetender
Overview
Crassula ovata is the jade plant, growing 24–48 inches (60–120 cm) indoors over many years. Thick succulent glossy oval leaves 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) long on stems that develop a woody, bark-covered trunk with age, forming a tree-like silhouette without training. The species name 'ovata' means 'egg-shaped.' Under bright light, leaves develop red margins. White to pale pink star-shaped flowers in clusters appear in winter on mature specimens — flowering requires cool nighttime temperatures of 45–55°F (7–13°C) and short day lengths. Specimens 50+ years old are documented; the slow growth and longevity mean the plant gradually develops a thicker trunk over decades. Fallen leaves root on contact with soil and produce new plants without intervention. In feng shui tradition, associated with prosperity (the 'money plant'). Native to South Africa and Mozambique. Mildly toxic to cats and dogs (causes vomiting if ingested). Overwatering is the primary cause of death — the succulent leaves and stems store water, and saturated soil causes root and stem rot. Full sun to bright indirect light.
Native Range
Crassula ovata is native to South Africa and Mozambique.Suggested Uses
Grown in containers of 1–5 gallons (4–20 liters) in bright to full sun locations. Suited to windowsills, desks, and as a long-term specimen plant that develops a tree-like form over years. Outdoors year-round in zones 10–11.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 4'
Width/Spread1'6" - 3'
Reaches mature size in approximately 10 years
Colors
Bloom Information
White to pale pink star-shaped flowers in winter clusters on mature specimens. Flowering requires cool nights 45–55°F (7–13°C) and short day lengths. May not bloom indoors without a cool dormancy period.Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
White to pale pink, small star-shaped, in clusters (on mature plants in winter with cool nights)Foliage Description
Jade green, thick, succulent, glossy, oval — often developing RED edges in bright lightGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Full sun to bright indirect light. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings — overwatering causes root and stem rot. Well-draining cactus/succulent soil. Cool winter temperatures promote flowering. Mildly toxic to cats and dogs. Very slow-growing; develops a tree-like trunk over many years.Pruning
Prune to control shape or encourage branching. Cut stems root easily in dry soil after allowing the cut end to callous for several days.Maintenance Level
very lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 3 gallons