Jade Plant

(Crassula argentea)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Succulent, dark green leaves are thumb shaped and attach directly to the stem. They are sometimes edged with red.

FOLIAGE COLORS:

Dark Green, Green, White, Pink

CONTAINER:

Small container, small planter (cuttings may be used in dish gardens), large container (specimen).

LIGHT:

High. Full sun (unless noted differently in "COMMENTS"), filtered light, south window, atrium, thousands of footcandles.

WATER:

Occasional. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1" to 1-1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool. 50 - 60 (degrees F) days, 45 - 55 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average house. 30% or more.

FERTILIZER:

Every 2 weeks

SOIL MIX:

Well drained; 1 part sterilized organic soil, 1 part sphagnum peat moss and 3 parts coarse sand.

PROPOGATION:

Leaf, also stem cuttings.

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely, healthy plant free from insect and disease damage. New leaf growth is desirable. Avoid those with yellow or brown leaf margins, wilted or water soaked leaves.

CARE:

Easy. Tolerates wide range of conditions. Good for beginners.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

`Pacifica', `Tricolor', `Variegata'

PROBLEMS:

Leaf drop: Don't let dry out too much.
Root rot: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plants dry out.
Mealybugs: Wash with soapy water or wipe off with alcohol using cotton swab.

COMMENTS:

Older plants may flower in winter. Plants range in size from small (cuttings) to several feet. Cuttings can be used in desert dish gardens.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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