Jade plant care
Crassula ovata
At a glance
- Light
- Bright light with direct sun
- Watering
- Every 14–21 days in summer, every 28–42 days in winter — when the soil is dry all the way through
- Humidity
- Dry air is fine
- Temperature
- 10–27 °C (50–81 °F)
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pets
- Toxic to cats and dogs
Intervals are typical indoor ranges. Your light, pot and season change them — always check the soil first. Pet safety per the ASPCA plant lists.
The jade plant (Crassula ovata), also called money tree or friendship tree, is a long-lived succulent that can grow into a small tree. It needs sun and very little water.
Light
Give it a bright spot with several hours of direct sun — a south- or west-facing window is ideal. In too little light it gets leggy and drops leaves. Leaf edges may turn red in strong sun; that's a harmless stress colour.
Watering
Water thoroughly, then let the soil dry out completely. In summer that is usually every two to three weeks; in winter, every four to six weeks. Plump, firm leaves mean it has enough water.
Soil and repotting
Use cactus or succulent soil in a heavy pot with a drainage hole — terracotta helps stop a top-heavy plant from tipping. Repot every two to three years in spring.
Humidity and temperature
Dry air is fine. Keep it above 10 °C. A cool, bright winter (10–15 °C) with little water encourages flowering.
Common problems
- Wrinkled, soft leaves: thirst — or, if the stem is also soft, rot from overwatering. Check the soil.
- Dropping leaves: overwatering, cold, or too little light.
- Leggy, stretched growth: not enough sun.
- White cottony spots: mealybugs. Dab them off with rubbing alcohol.
Is a jade plant safe for pets?
No. The jade plant is listed as toxic to cats and dogs, causing vomiting and lethargy.