Crassula

Crassula spp.,Jade Plant, Silver Dollar Plant, Watch Chain, String of Buttons

The Crassula genus is incredibly diverse, ranging from the tree-like Crassula ovata to the geometrically stacked C. perforata. Native primarily to the arid regions of South Africa, these plants are known for their thick, fleshy leaves that store water with high efficiency. Many varieties develop a woody "trunk" as they age, giving them a miniature tree or shrub-like appearance. They are culturally significant in many parts of the world, often referred to as "Money Trees" and believed to bring good fortune.

Care Guide

LIGHT

  • Requires bright, indirect to direct light. They thrive in South or West-facing windows.
  • Sun Stress: Many varieties will develop beautiful red or yellow edges on their leaves when exposed to high-intensity light; this is a healthy response.
  • Insufficient light leads to weak, spindly stems that cannot support the weight of the fleshy leaves.

WATER

  • Drought-tolerant. Use the "soak and dry" method: water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom, then wait until the soil is 100% dry.
  • Winter: Enter a semi-dormant state; reduce watering to once every 4–6 weeks.
  • Thirst Signal: Leaves will feel slightly soft or look wrinkled when the plant is thirsty.

SOIL

  • Needs a well-draining succulent mix. * A blend of 60% potting soil and 40% coarse grit, pumice, or perlite is ideal to prevent "wet feet."

GROWTH HABIT

  • Branching/Stacking: They grow in a structural, upward fashion.
  • Not Cold-Hardy: They contain a high water content and will freeze/mush if exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

PROPAGATING

  • Stem Cuttings: The most reliable method. Snip a branch, let it dry (callus) for 3–5 days, and place in dry soil.
  • Leaf Cuttings: Slower but effective. Lay a healthy leaf on top of the soil and wait for "pups" to form at the base.

PRUNING

  • Highly responsive to pruning. Cutting a branch back to a leaf node will almost always result in two new branches sprouting, allowing you to "shape" the plant like a bonsai.

REPOTTTING

  • Should occur every 2–3 years to refresh the soil.
  • Use heavy pots (clay or ceramic) because these plants become very top-heavy as they grow.

FERTILIZING

  • Feed once or twice during the spring and summer using a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer diluted to half-strength.

TOXICITY

  • Toxic to pets. Ingestion can cause vomiting, depression, and lack of coordination in cats and dogs.

Variability in Care

Arborescent (Tree-like) Types
Examples: C. ovata (Jade Plant), C. arborescens (Silver Dollar Jade)

  • These grow heavy woody stems and require heavy ceramic pots to prevent tipping.
  • Can be pruned into "bonsai" shapes to encourage a thick trunk.

Stacked/String Types
Examples: C. perforata (String of Buttons), C. muscosa (Watch Chain)

  • These have higher light requirements to keep the leaves "stacked" tightly together.
  • Very prone to becoming leggy if kept more than 2 feet from a window.

Plants for Sale