Crassula Ovata Ohgonkagetsu

Description

Crassula Ovata Ohgonkagetsu, commonly known as Golden Jade, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a cultivar of the Crassula Ovata species and is prized for its golden-rimmed leaves. The leaves are thick and fleshy, with an oval shape and a glossy texture. This plant is a slow-growing perennial that can reach a height of up to 3 feet. It produces small white or pink flowers in the summer, but they are insignificant compared to the beauty of its foliage. Golden Jade is a popular houseplant that adds a touch of elegance to any room.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Golden Jade has oval-shaped leaves that are thick and fleshy. The leaves are a deep green color with a golden-yellow edge. The plant grows in a compact, bushy form, and can reach a height of up to 3 feet. In the summer, Golden Jade produces small white or pink flowers that grow in clusters. The flowers are not very showy and are often removed to help the plant conserve its energy.

Care Guide

Golden Jade is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for beginners. Here are some tips on how to care for your Golden Jade:- Water: Golden Jade prefers well-draining soil and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be careful not to let the plant sit in standing water. – Fertilization: Golden Jade does not require a lot of fertilizer, but can benefit from a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Golden Jade prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH. A cactus or succulent soil mix works well.- Sunlight: Golden Jade prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to place the plant near a window that receives filtered light.- Hardiness Zones: Golden Jade is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. In colder climates, it should be grown indoors or in a greenhouse.

Common Pests & Diseases

Golden Jade is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be treated with a neem oil spray or by wiping the plant down with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not let the plant sit in standing water.

Habitat

Golden Jade is native to South Africa, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil. It is often found growing in the shade of larger plants or rocks. In cultivation, Golden Jade is grown as a houseplant or in a greenhouse. It prefers warm, humid conditions and bright, indirect sunlight.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I water my Golden Jade?

A: Golden Jade should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. This can vary depending on your environment, but generally it is around once a week.

Q: Can I propagate my Golden Jade?

A: Yes, Golden Jade can be propagated by stem or leaf cuttings. Make sure the cutting has calloused over before planting in well-draining soil.

Q: Will my Golden Jade flower every year?

A: Golden Jade produces small white or pink flowers in the summer, but they are not very showy. The plant may not flower every year, especially if it is not getting enough light or nutrients.

Q: What should I do if my Golden Jade is getting too leggy?

A: If your Golden Jade is getting too tall and leggy, it may be due to lack of light. Try moving the plant to a brighter location or supplementing with artificial light.

Related Plants

– Crassula Ovata ‘Gollum’- Crassula Ovata ‘Hobbit’- Crassula Ovata ‘Variegata’- Crassula Ovata ‘Tricolor’

References

– University of Florida IFAS Extension. “Jade Plant: Crassula Ovata.” https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg214- World of Succulents. “Crassula Ovata ‘Ohgonkagetsu’.” https://worldofsucculents.com/crassula-ovata-ohgonkagetsu-golden-jade/