Crassula Plant

Description

1. Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Crassula ovata (most common species, also known as Jade Plant)

• Common Names: Jade Plant, Money Plant (succulent type), Lucky Plant, Friendship Tree

• Family: Crassulaceae

• Type: Succulent perennial

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native To: South Africa and Mozambique

• Now grown worldwide as a popular ornamental and indoor plant, especially in dry and warm climates.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Height & Spread: Can grow 1–3 feet tall indoors, and up to 6 feet outdoors in ideal conditions.

• Leaves: Thick, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves, usually green but sometimes edged with red when exposed to bright sunlight.

• Stems: Woody and brown at the base, green and fleshy on young growth.

• Flowers: Small, star-shaped, white or pale pink flowers that bloom in clusters, typically in winter under the right conditions.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight; can tolerate some direct morning or late-afternoon sun.

• Soil: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix.

• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently — allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering can cause root rot.

• Temperature: Ideal range is 18–24°C (65–75°F); can tolerate down to 10°C (50°F) but is frost-sensitive.

• Humidity: Thrives in low to average indoor humidity.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Trim back leggy growth to encourage branching.

• Fertilization: Feed once a month during spring and summer with a diluted succulent fertilizer.

• Repotting: Every 2–3 years or when rootbound; prefers slightly cramped roots.

• Pests/Diseases: Occasionally affected by mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal root rot.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Decorative Value: Attractive, easy-to-maintain succulent for homes, offices, and gardens.

• Symbolism: Considered a symbol of prosperity, good luck, and friendship in Feng Shui.

• Air Purification: Helps remove indoor toxins like toluene and acetone (according to some studies).

• Low Maintenance: Perfect for beginners due to its drought tolerance.

7. Safety Note

• Toxicity: Mildly toxic to pets if ingested, causing vomiting and lethargy.