Jade Plant, Friendship Tree, Jade Tree, Money Tree, Dollar Plant, Lucky Plant, Pink Joy

Native to South Africa and Mozambique, C. ovata is one of the most popular within the Crassula genus, which consists of over 300 species. Crassula is a xeriscape plant, suitable for arid regions endowed with poor, sandy soil, and limited rainfall. This succulent can survive long periods of drought because it stores water in its fleshy leaves. Unfortunately, no one else can benefit from such stored water because the plant is toxic upon digestion to animals, including humans.

C. ovata is a showy evergreen perennial, praised for its attractive foliage and compact form. The plant’s nickname comes from its vibrant jade-green leaves that are sometimes embellished with a red rim, especially if the plant resides in full sun. The jade-colored foliage of this subshrub resembles Asian jade coins, a symbol of wealth and prosperity. In many cultures, the similarity to jade mineral elevated this plant to become an amulet for good luck, a talisman for welcoming abundance, and a flesh-stone of sublime peace and well-being. “May your new Jade Plant bring you lots of good fortune and prosperity,” complements a gift of C. ovata in a silk-swathed flower pot anytime when money is concerned.

In the fall, the plant clothes itself in the plush blanket of small starry-white or pale-pink flowers that keep blooming in clusters until spring. Upon their departure, the plant thrives again, showcasing its prosperity with new neon-green leafage. The continuous charm and vigor make C. ovata a great choice for rock gardens or containers.

Height: 2 to 9 feet
Width: 2 to 5 feet
Spacing: 5 feet

Soil: loam, sand, well-drained
pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Exposure: Full to partial sun

Water: low.
Tolerance: Drought, dry soil, rocky soil.
Toxicity: Keep out of reach of pets. Toxic if ingested to humans, cats, and dogs.

Gardenia. (n.d.). Crassula. https://www.gardenia.net/genus/crassula

Gardenia. (n.d.). Crassula ovata (Jade Plant). https://www.gardenia.net/plant/crassula-ovata-jade-plant

World of Succulents. (n.d.). Using Jade Plant for Good Luck, Prosperity, and Friendship. https://worldofsucculents.com/jade-plant-for-good-luck-prosperity-and-friendship/

Tiny Rituals. (n.d.). Jade Meaning: Healing Properties & Everyday Uses. https://tinyrituals.co/blogs/tiny-rituals/jade-meaning-healing-properties-everyday-uses