Crassula Ovata Money Plant

Crassula ovata Money Plant, also known as Jade Plant, is an evergreen succulent with thick, oval green leaves and sturdy, branching stems that develop a woody appearance with age. Its rounded habit suits pots, succulent gardens and sheltered courtyards, while smaller plants can be grown indoors in a brightly lit position.

Growth:

Slow to moderate growing, typically reaching 1–2 m high and 1–1.5 m wide in favourable garden conditions. Remains smaller in containers and can be pruned to maintain a compact, tree-like shape.

Light Requirements:

Grows best in full sun to part shade. Indoors, position near a bright window with some direct sunlight. Introduce plants gradually to stronger sun and provide protection from intense afternoon heat during extreme summer weather.

Soil Requirements:

Requires freely draining, sandy or gritty soil. Use a cactus and succulent potting mix for containers, ensuring pots have drainage holes. Avoid heavy soils that remain wet.

Water Requirements:

Allow the soil to dry between thorough waterings. Water more frequently during active growth and hot weather, reducing watering during winter. Empty saucers after watering and avoid keeping the roots constantly moist.

Frost Tolerance:

Frost-sensitive, particularly when young. Established plants may withstand brief, very light frost, but freezing conditions can damage leaves and stems. Grow in a sheltered position or move containers under cover during frosty weather.

Drought Tolerance:

Highly drought tolerant once established. Its fleshy leaves and stems store moisture, allowing it to withstand dry periods. Container plants require occasional watering during prolonged hot weather.

Flowering Information:

Mature plants can produce clusters of small, star-shaped white to pale pink flowers from winter into early spring. Flowering is more reliable on plants receiving good sunlight and cool, relatively dry winter conditions. Indoor plants flower less frequently.

Spacing Requirements:

Space approximately 1–1.5 m apart in garden beds to allow for mature growth and airflow. Allow additional room around plants grown as individual specimens.

Fertiliser Requirements:

Feed lightly with a fertiliser suitable for cacti and succulents during spring and summer, following the label directions. Avoid overfeeding and reduce or stop fertilising when growth slows during winter.

Care and Maintenance:

Prune in spring to maintain shape and encourage branching. Remove dead or damaged growth and handle carefully, as fleshy branches can snap. Repot when needed using fresh, freely draining mix and a stable container that supports the plant’s weight.