This website uses affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase. This does not affect the price you pay.

The Walking Crow's Guide to Plants and Gardening

The Jade Plant, scientifically known as Crassula ovata, is a popular and beloved succulent recognized for its thick, fleshy leaves and sturdy, tree-like growth habit. It has long been cultivated as a houseplant and symbol of good luck and prosperity. Other common names include Money Tree, Friendship Tree, and Lucky Plant.

  • Species: Crassula ovata
  • Genus: Crassula
  • Family: Crassulaceae
  • Growing Zone: 10-11 (USDA) – Primarily grown as a houseplant in cooler climates.
  • Country of Origin: South Africa and Mozambique
  • Mildly Toxic: The Jade Plant contains toxins that can cause vomiting, incoordination, and depression if ingested by pets or humans. Keep out of reach of children and animals.
  • High Absorption: Like many succulents, Jade Plants perform Crassulacean Acid Metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis, allowing them to open their stomata at night to absorb carbon dioxide. This helps improve air quality, particularly in enclosed spaces.
  • Air Purifying: Contributes to cleaner indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

Traditional Medicinal Uses: The sap has been used in traditional medicine to treat warts and nausea, though scientific evidence is limited

Gardening and Outside Amazon Page
Amazon.com
  • Soil: Well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
  • Sunlight: Bright, indirect light or full sun. Avoid intense, direct sunlight which can burn the leaves.
  • Water: Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Allow excess water to drain to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter.
  • Pruning: Prune to shape or control size.
  • Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years when the roots become overcrowded.
  • Propagation: Easily propagated from leaf or stem cuttings.
  • Pests and Diseases: Susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Root rot can occur with overwatering.

 

Search terms: Jade Plant, Crassula ovata, Crassulaceae, Money Tree, Friendship Tree, and Lucky Plant, low-maintenance, good fortune, plants, hobbyist, collectible, tropical plant, cactus, succulent, genus, species, plant, potted plant, indoor plant, indoor garden, plant bomb, seed bomb, the walking crow, nursery, greenhouse, fertilizer, soil, plant care, plant health, home garden, toxicity, gardening, blooming, leaf, leaves, flower, flowering, water, growing zone, perennial, annual, planting, thewalkingcrow, sunlight

The Walking Crow Blog

Thank you.

Latest Blog Posts

Dwarf Palmetto Plant

Growing the Dwarf Palmetto Plant (Sabal minor)

The Dwarf Palmetto, or Sabal minor, is a small, cold-hardy palm native to the southeastern U.S. It thrives in USDA Zones 7-10 and tolerates temperatures as low as -10°F. Non-toxic to pets, it requires minimal care and adapts well to various soils, making it ideal for landscaping and wildlife habitats.
Dumb Cane Plant

Growing the Dumb Cane Plant (Dieffenbachia)

The Dumb Cane Plant, or Dieffenbachia, is a popular houseplant known for its striking, variegated leaves and toxicity. Native to tropical Americas, it requires well-draining soil, bright indirect light, and consistent moisture. While it offers limited air-purifying benefits, care should be taken due to its irritating sap and potential harm to children and pets.

Growing the Dragon Tree (Dracaena marginata)

The Dragon Tree, also known as Madagascar Dragon Tree, is a resilient indoor plant with slender stems and long, narrow leaves featuring red or purple margins. It thrives in various light conditions and prefers well-draining soil. However, it’s toxic to pets and requires moderate care, making it suitable for beginners.

Growing the Deltoid-leaved Dew Plant (Oscularia deltoides)

The Deltoid-leaved Dew Plant, a non-toxic succulent native to South Africa, features triangular blue-green leaves and fragrant pink flowers. Thriving in USDA Zones 9-11, it requires full sunlight and minimal watering. Prune to encourage growth, and it can be easily propagated from cuttings, making it a charming addition to gardens.

Growing the Crown of Thorns Plant (Euphorbia milii)

The Crown of Thorns, or Euphorbia milii, is a hardy succulent shrub valued for its colorful bracts and resilience. Native to Madagascar, it thrives in warm climates (USDA Zones 9-11) and requires well-draining soil and full sun. Caution is advised due to its toxic latex sap. It’s low-maintenance and perfect for gardens.

Growing the Concrete Leaf Plant (Titanopsis calcarea)

The Concrete Leaf Plant, or Jewel Plant, is a unique succulent from South Africa, known for its stone-like appearance and grey-green leaves covered in white tubercles. It thrives in sunny, warm conditions and is drought-tolerant but requires well-draining soil. Non-toxic, it can improve indoor air quality.

Growing the Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)

Coleus, or Painted Nettle, is a vibrant annual plant known for its stunning foliage in various colors. It thrives in warm climates and is popular for gardens and containers. Coleus prefers well-draining soil, moderate humidity, and partial shade. While non-toxic, it offers no significant health benefits.

Growing the Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera)

The Christmas Cactus, known scientifically as Schlumbergera, is a tropical plant celebrated for its vibrant flowers and suitability for indoor gardening. Non-toxic to pets and children, it requires bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. Ideal temperatures promote blooming, while proper care ensures its longevity as a cherished holiday decoration.

This website uses affiliate links,
which means we may earn a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase.
This does not affect the price you pay.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This