When we think of Crassula varieties we often think of the plants we commonly called Jade Plants, however there is much more to the genus than tis group.
The plant that we commonly call the ‘Jade Tree’ or ‘Money Tree’ goes under a few names, Crassula portulacea is the name, however you could use Crassula ovata, Crassula argentea and even Crassula obliqua.
We are not sure if it is really ‘lucky’ or not, however they are a great indoor plant.
However these are not the only Crassula species, so although Jade plants are Crassula, not all Crassula are Jade plants. Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’ is one well know example.
Grown widely as houseplants, many of the species look great in a containers.
Care
Jade Plant Growing in Container
Basic Crassula Care
- Soil and Drainage
One thing about all species that is fairly common is care requirements. A well drained soil is essential.
Use a specialist succulent potting mix rather than garden soil, and outdoors dig in some material that will improve drainage, or raise the garden bed a little. - Light
Good light is important, full sun, and when growing inside it is even more important. Near a bright window, and take them outside in summer. Generally speaking if the leaf color is good, they are getting enough light. - Fertilizer
Fertilizer is not as important as watering and light, these are a slow growing plant and do not require a lot of fertilizer, For indoor and potted plants a little slow release fertilizer once a year. If you are growing them in the garden, you will probably not need to fertilize them at all. - Watering Crassula
As a general rule water when the soil is dry during warm or hot weather. During cold weather hold back on water, however during winter they do need a few good waterings. Wait until the soil dries out, and look for a break in the weather, if you this a few times during winter, they will usually flower.
Crassula Varieties
Although not all Crassula are known as Jade plants, many are, and these are the most commonly grown of the genus.
- Crassula ovata is the Dollar Plant or Jade Tree.
- Crassula argentea is the Giant Jade Plant.
- Crassula arborescens is the ‘Silver Dollar Jade Plant’
- Crassula portulacea is the Spoon Jade’
- Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’
- Crassula perfoliata var. minor ‘The Airplane Plant’
- Crassula atropurpurea can be used a ground cover plant in warmer zones.
- Crassula sieberiana
- Crassula helmsii
- Crassula quadrangularis
Propagation
Cultivars are interesting in that they can also be propagated from seed. However they are very easy to grow grow stem cuttings as well.
Where to Buy
Crassula plants are widely available for sale – Or Try the following Mail Order Nurseries
KARA CACTUS & SUCCULENT NURSERY
www.karacactus.com
