Crassula ovata JADE TREE (plant)

Jade Tree, also known as Jade Plant, Lucky Plant, or Crassula ovata in Latin, is a slow-growing, perennial succulent. This atypical plant originating from South Africa belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It generally measures 80 cm in height and grows with a bonsai-like habit.

Its foliage is dense and fleshy. The smooth, glossy leaves are round, thick, and dark green, often with a slight red tint on the edges. They are arranged in a rosette shape, creating a beautiful symmetry.

Jade tree seeds are black and tiny, not exceeding one millimeter, and are primarily dispersed by the wind. Its star-shaped pink flowers are particularly beautiful and bloom at the end of summer on specimens that are several years old.

- Uses:

A Graphic and Easy-Care Icon

Jade Plant, is renowned for its deep green fleshy leaves, reminiscent of the precious stone of the same name.
This succulent is an ideal choice for beginners or for greening office spaces, as it is celebrated for its ease of care.
Particularly hardy, it stores water in its tissues and requires only minimal watering, easily tolerating the occasional neglect.

A Sculptural Silhouette for Interiors

Over time, this variety develops a robust, branched trunk that gives it the appearance of a true miniature tree or natural bonsai.
Appreciated for its evergreen foliage and graphic habit, the Jade Plant integrates beautifully into bright interiors, ideally placed near a south-facing window to maintain its compact shape and leaf lustre.

A Symbol of Prosperity in Feng Shui

In Feng Shui tradition, this plant is a highly sacred symbol, often called the "money tree," "lucky tree," or "friendship tree."
According to these ancestral customs, its presence is associated with prosperity, household harmony, and the flow of positive energy.
Its strong symbolism and exceptional longevity make it a popular traditional gift for housewarmings or to celebrate a new life stage.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Plant the Jade Tree in a pot using a mixture of potting soil and sand.
• Ensure proper drainage at the bottom of the pot with a layer of clay pebbles.
• Water gently at the base of the plant.
• Place the pot in a very bright area of the house.
• The Money Tree can be planted directly in the ground in regions with a mild climate.

- Soil type / substrate:

It prefers a well-draining substrate to promote growth and prevent root rot. An ideal mix consists of 70% cactus soil and 30% draining elements such as sand, perlite, or clay granules. It is recommended to repot every two years to refresh the substrate.

- Exposure / light:

The Money Tree tolerates all types of light exposure; however, it will grow faster if placed in a southwest-facing position. If the nodes between leaf pairs are too far apart (legginess), the plant lacks light. If the leaves turn red, it is receiving too much direct sun.

- Temperatures / hardiness:

It easily withstands temperatures near 40°C. However, it cannot tolerate cold as it is frost-sensitive. Its USDA hardiness zone is 9-11.

- Irrigation / watering:

As a succulent, it stores water in its leaves and stems. Watering should be sparse: once a week during summer and once every 15 days in winter. If the base withers, it is severely underwatered. Conversely, if the base becomes soft/mushy, you must take cuttings immediately to save the plant.

- Multiplication:

The Luck Tree can be propagated by seed, layering, or more simply by stem or leaf cuttings (using the "smothered" or high-humidity method).

- Pests / diseases:

The Friendship Tree generally has no known pests or diseases; it is a very hardy and easy-to-grow plant.

- Maintenance:

It is occasionally necessary to remove old yellow leaves that fall to the ground; this is the only maintenance required for this indoor plant.

This article was written by Julien on 07/16/2026.