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Description
Crassula Ovata, commonly known as Jade Plant or Money Plant, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family Crassulaceae. It is native to South Africa and Mozambique and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Crassula |
Appearance
The Jade Plant has a thick stem and fleshy, oval-shaped leaves that are typically green but can also have a red tint. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and can grow up to three inches long. The plant can reach a height of three feet and has a bushy, tree-like appearance. In the winter, it produces small pink or white flowers.
Care Guide
The Jade Plant is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered only when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings. The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some shade. It is hardy in zones 10-11 but can be grown indoors in other zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect the Jade Plant include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or if the soil does not drain properly. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
The Jade Plant is native to South Africa and Mozambique, where it grows in rocky, mountainous areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Jade Plant?
A: Water your Jade Plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: Can I grow Jade Plant indoors?
A: Yes, Jade Plant can be grown indoors in zones outside of 10-11.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Jade Plant?
A: A balanced fertilizer should be used once a month during the growing season.
Q: What should I do if my Jade Plant has root rot?
A: To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out between waterings.
Related Plants
- Crassula Arborescens
- Crassula Capitella
- Crassula Muscosa
- Crassula Perforata
References
- “Crassula Ovata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281905&isprofile=0&pt=2.
- “Jade Plant.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp019.
- “Crassula Ovata.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/5282/Crassula-ovata/Details.
