Caring for Your Jade Plant (Crassula ovata): A Houseplant Guide
The jade plant, scientifically known as Crassula ovata, is a popular houseplant that not only adds a touch of green to any indoor space but also carries a cultural significance in many Asian societies, where it is often referred to as the "money plant" or "money tree."
This long-lived plant, which can live for a century or more, comes in various cultivars, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some common cultivars and their distinct features:
1. **Mini Jade (Crassula ovata)** - This compact variety reaches up to 2 feet (60 cm) at maturity, making it ideal for compact spaces like desks or small shelves. - Its smooth, tear-drop-shaped leaves are up to 3 cm long, and the plant develops brownish, thick trunks with age.
2. **Gollum Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’)** - Known for its tubular leaves, Gollum Jade can reach up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall when unstaked. - Under bright light, this cultivar displays red coloration at the tips of its leaves.
3. **Gandalf Jade (Crassula ovata 'Gandalf')** - This cultivar boasts long, tubular green leaves that open at the tips like flared trumpets. - In bright light, Gandalf Jade develops rich red highlights, making it a striking addition to any succulent display.
4. **ET's Fingers Jade (Crassula ovata 'ET's Fingers')** - This cultivar is suitable for low-light conditions and is propagated from stem cuttings. - Its long, tubular leaves have round, suction cup-like tips that turn red in direct sun.
5. **Hummel's Sunset Jade (Crassula ovata 'Hummel's Sunset')** - Known for its vibrant colors that can change depending on light conditions, Hummel's Sunset Jade is worth exploring for those seeking a more colourful addition to their succulent collection.
6. **Crosby's Compact Jade (Crassula ovata 'Crosby's Compact')** - This dwarf variety of the classic jade plant has smaller, tightly packed leaves and a bushier appearance, making it ideal for compact living spaces.
7. **Tricolor Jade (Crassula ovata 'Tricolor')** - This cultivar features leaves with multiple colours, adding a splash of variety to your indoor garden.
8. **Hobbit Jade (Crassula ovata 'Hobbit')** - Similar to other compact varieties, the Hobbit Jade is a compact plant, but its specific characteristics are not detailed in the available sources.
It's important to note that jade plants are not tolerant of cold, with a single frost likely to kill them. In cold-winter locations, they should be moved away from windows. Overwatering can lead to deadly root rot, so it's crucial to ensure your jade plant has well-draining soil and is watered only when the soil is dry to touch.
Jade plants do not require fertilizer, but can be fertilized with a balanced liquid fertilizer once or twice during the growing season. For optimal growth, place your jade plant on the sill of a south-facing or west-facing window, where it can thrive in average household temperatures of 60° to 75°F.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, jade plants are safe for pets, as they are not toxic to dogs and cats. These resilient, easy-to-care-for plants are a great choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners. With proper care and attention, your jade plant can become a beloved and long-lasting member of your indoor garden.
The wide variety of Crassula ovata cultivars, such as the Mini Jade, Gollum Jade, Gandalf Jade, ET's Fingers Jade, Hummel's Sunset Jade, Crosby's Compact Jade, Tricolor Jade, and Hobbit Jade, cater to different lifestyle preferences and home-and-garden arrangements. Each cultivar, with its distinct features, can transform a garden or indoor space into a unique succulent display.
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