▶Crassulaovata (Jade Plant)
With Jade Plant’s gnarly woody stems and plump oval-shaped leaves, jade plants have a miniature, tree-like appearance that makes them very appealing as a houseplant. Their long life makes them ideal for bonsai, but they are also otherwise passed down from generation to generation. With just a bit of care, it can grow to be between 3 and 6 feet tall, but it does so slowly, growing about 2 inches a year.
Native to South Africa, jade plants were once thought to bring good luck to their owners, so are often given as housewarming gifts. Because they're typically only grown indoors, they can be brought home or started at any time, either from a professional nursery or through propagation.
▶Types of Jade Plant
The term "Jade plant" typically refers to the popular succulent species Crassula ovata. However, there are several other Crassula species and related plants that are commonly referred to as Jade plants due to their similar appearance and growth habits. Here are some types of Jade plants:
➡Crassula ovata:
The classic Jade plant, also known as the money plant or lucky plant. It has thick, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves with a glossy green color and often develops a tree-like form.
➡Crassula argentea:
Also known as Silver Jade Plant, this variety closely resembles Crassula ovata but has silvery-blue leaves with red edges.
➡Crassula arborescens:
Commonly known as the Silver Dollar Jade, this plant has rounded, silvery-gray leaves and can grow up to three feet tall.
➡Crassula perforata:
Known as the String of Buttons or Necklace Vine, this type has elongated, stacked leaves with a slightly different appearance from the classic Jade plant.
➡Crassula rupestris:
Also called the Baby's Necklace or Rosary Vine, this Jade plant has small, round, bead-like leaves.
➡Crassula rupestris 'Tom Thumb':
A dwarf variety of Crassula rupestris, with tiny, compact leaves.
➡Crassula tetragona:
Commonly known as the Miniature Pine Tree or Pine Tree Jade, it has upright, needle-like green leaves.
➡Crassula falcata:
Known as Propeller Plant, this Jade plant has triangular, flattened leaves that look like propellers.
➡Crassula capitella:
Also called Campfire Plant or Red Pagoda, this variety has stacked, triangular leaves that turn bright red at the tips when exposed to bright light.
▶Jade Plant Benefits
Jade plants (Crassula ovata) and other related varieties offer several benefits, both aesthetic and practical, which contribute to their popularity as houseplants. Here are some of the benefits of having a Jade plant:
◼Air purifying properties:
Like many other succulents, Jade plants can help improve indoor air quality by absorbing pollutants and toxins and releasing oxygen during photosynthesis. They can help remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air, creating a healthier living environment.
◼Easy to propagate:
Jade plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings, allowing you to create new plants and share them with friends and family.
◼Feng Shui:
In some cultures, Jade plants are considered to bring good luck, prosperity, and positive energy to the home. They are often associated with wealth and abundance, especially when placed near the entrance or in the wealth corner of a room according to Feng Shui principles.
◼Drought tolerance:
Jade plants are succulents, meaning they store water in their leaves and stems. This adaptation allows them to survive dry conditions, making them well-suited for individuals who may forget to water their plants regularly.
◼Soil erosion control:
When planted outdoors, Jade plants can help control soil erosion on slopes due to their extensive root systems.
◼Aesthetic appeal:
Jade plants have attractive, glossy green leaves and a unique tree-like appearance. They can add a touch of beauty and elegance to any indoor or outdoor space.
▶Jade Plant Indoor as a Gift
Symbol of good luck and prosperity:
In many cultures, the Jade plant is considered a symbol of good luck, prosperity, and wealth. Gifting a Jade plant to someone can be seen as a wish for their success and abundance in life.
⏺Memorable and meaningful:
A living gift like a Jade plant can leave a lasting impression on the recipient. It can serve as a reminder of your thoughtfulness and friendship for years to come.
⏺ Suitable for various occasions:
A Jade plant makes a versatile gift for various occasions, such as birthdays, housewarmings, graduations, promotions, or simply to express appreciation and love.
⏺Personal touch:
Giving a living gift, such as a Jade plant, adds a personal touch to your gesture. It shows that you put thought into selecting a gift that can grow and thrive over time, symbolizing a lasting connection and friendship.
⏺Green decor:
Jade plants have an attractive and distinct appearance, which adds a touch of natural beauty to any space. Gifting a Jade plant can be a way to enhance the recipient's home or workspace with a beautiful green element.