Crassula arborescens
Crassula arborescensUSDA | Grow Zone
9-11Outdoors all year in zones 9 to 11. Anywhere colder, keep it as a houseplant. Protect it below 30°F.
- Light
- Bright, indirect
- Water
- When the top 1-2 in is dry
- Humidity
- 30-50%
- Temperature
- 65-75°F (18-24°C)
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Growth
- Moderate
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Pets
- Non-toxic to pets and children
Crassula arborescens, commonly known as the jade plant, is a popular succulent native to South Africa. Its thick, fleshy leaves and tree-like structure make it a favorite among indoor gardeners, symbolizing good luck and prosperity.
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Ideal temperature
65-75°F is where it grows fastest. Below 30°F cold damage starts.
Spacing and harvest
- Mature size
- 3-4 ft tall, 2-3 ft wide
- Plant apart
- 12-24 in
- Frost
- Half hardy: light frost only
Everything it needs
9 essentials at a glance
Watering
Crassula arborescens, commonly known as the jade plant, prefers to dry out between waterings.
Water thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and less frequently in fall and winter. Signs of over-watering include yellowing leaves and a mushy stem, while under-watering may cause leaves to shrivel and drop.
Light
This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate direct sunlight for several hours a day.
Ideally, it should receive 6-8 hours of light daily. If the leaves start to stretch or become leggy, it may not be getting enough light, while scorched leaves indicate too much direct sun.
Soil
Crassula arborescens prefers a well-draining soil mix, ideally a cactus or succulent potting mix with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.5.
Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water retention, which can lead to root rot.
Humidity
This succulent prefers low humidity levels, ideally around 30-50%.
To increase humidity, you can mist the plant occasionally or place a humidity tray nearby. Signs of humidity stress include leaf curling or browning tips.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Crassula arborescens is between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate brief periods of cold down to 30°F (-1°C), but prolonged exposure can damage the plant.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or a specialized succulent fertilizer.
Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season and avoid fertilizing in winter. Signs of nutrient deficiency include stunted growth and pale leaves.
Pruning
Prune Crassula arborescens in late winter or early spring to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing spent leaves can help maintain its appearance.
Repotting
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.
Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter. Signs it needs repotting include roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth. To repot, gently remove the plant from its current pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in fresh potting mix.
Propagation
Propagation can be done through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
For stem cuttings, take a healthy stem, allow it to callous for a day or two, then plant it in well-draining soil. Leaf cuttings can be placed on the soil surface and misted lightly. The best time for propagation is during the spring or early summer.
When it's unhappy
Yellow leaves
Why it happens
Over-watering or poor drainage.
How to fix it
Reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has proper drainage.
Leggy growth
Why it happens
Insufficient light.
How to fix it
Move the plant to a brighter location to encourage compact growth.
Leaf drop
Why it happens
Under-watering or sudden temperature changes.
How to fix it
Adjust watering schedule and protect the plant from drafts.
Root rot
Why it happens
Excess moisture in the soil.
How to fix it
Remove the plant from the pot, trim away affected roots, and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Pests (e.g., mealybugs)
Why it happens
High humidity and poor air circulation.
How to fix it
Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and improve air circulation.
Care through the year
Spring
In spring, increase watering frequency as the plant begins to actively grow. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Summer
During summer, ensure the jade plant receives plenty of bright light. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and monitor for pests.
Fall
In fall, gradually reduce watering as the plant's growth slows. Prepare for winter by ensuring it is in a well-lit location.
Winter
In winter, water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry. Keep the plant in a warm area, away from cold drafts.
Toxicity & Safety
Crassula arborescens is considered non-toxic to pets and children. However, ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. It's best to keep it out of reach of small children and pets.
Good to know
Why are my jade plant leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves on a jade plant often indicate over-watering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is drying out between waterings and check for proper drainage.
How often should I water my Crassula arborescens?
Water your jade plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again.
What type of soil is best for jade plants?
A well-draining soil mix, such as a cactus or succulent potting mix, is ideal for jade plants. This helps prevent root rot and promotes healthy growth.
How can I propagate my jade plant?
You can propagate jade plants through stem or leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to callous for a day before planting them in well-draining soil.
What temperature is best for jade plants?
Jade plants thrive in temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and can tolerate brief cold spells down to 30°F (-1°C).
How do I know when to repot my jade plant?
Repot your jade plant every 2-3 years or when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, indicating it has outgrown its pot.
Is Crassula arborescens toxic to pets?
No, Crassula arborescens is non-toxic to pets and children, but ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
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