How to Care for a Jade Plant

The Jade Plant, also known as Crassula ovata or “money plant,” is a beloved succulent native to South Africa. Its thick, glossy, oval-shaped leaves and woody stems give it a miniature tree-like appearance, symbolizing good luck and prosperity in many cultures. Known for its resilience and long lifespan, the Jade Plant thrives on minimal care, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned plant lovers. With its sculptural form and vibrant green foliage, it adds a touch of natural elegance to any indoor space.

With easyplant, watering your Jade Plant is simple. Make sure to check the easyplant reservoir once every 3 months and fill it if empty, and you’re all set!

Jade Plant grows best in a space with bright direct light, where the sunlight streams inside directly, and can also adapt to spaces with bright indirect light, where the sun rays are diffused. Avoid placing it in spaces with low light or spaces without natural sunlight.

To keep your Jade Plant looking its best, gently dust its thick leaves every few weeks with a soft, dry cloth to maintain their healthy shine and allow for better light absorption. Rotate the plant regularly to encourage even growth and prevent it from leaning toward the light. You can prune your Jade Plant to shape it or remove leggy stems - new branches will soon grow from where you trim. Over time, your Jade Plant may naturally take on a tree-like form with a sturdy trunk and lush crown.

If your Jade Plant begins to outgrow its pot, easyplant offers a repotting kit designed for a seamless transition to a larger container that provides more room for its roots and fresh soil. Repot only when necessary, typically every few years, to maintain its health and stability.

Indoors, a Jade Plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide over time, developing a thick, woody trunk and dense canopy of succulent leaves. Growth is generally moderate - expect your Jade Plant to add several inches each year under consistent light and proper care. With patience and regular pruning, it can be shaped into a beautiful miniature tree that matures gracefully for decades.

Jade Plant thrives in warm, stable indoor environments with temperatures between 65°F and 80°F during the day and no lower than 50°F at night. It prefers average household humidity and doesn’t require any additional moisture in the air. Avoid placing your Jade Plant near cold drafts, heating vents, or air conditioners, as sudden temperature changes can cause stress or leaf drop. Maintaining steady indoor conditions will help your Jade Plant stay vibrant and healthy year-round.

Yes, the Jade Plant is considered toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Its leaves contain compounds that can cause nausea, vomiting, and lethargy in cats and dogs, and mild stomach irritation in humans. To keep everyone safe, place your Jade Plant out of reach of curious pets and young children, ideally on a high shelf or plant stand. Always wash your hands after handling or pruning to avoid accidental contact with sap.

If you’re using easyplant, following the three-month refill schedule will help prevent the most common Jade Plant issues caused by over- or underwatering. If you’re not using easyplant and notice yellow, mushy leaves, your Jade Plant is likely overwatered—allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Wrinkled or drooping leaves usually mean it’s time for a drink. Leaf drop can occur after sudden temperature changes or from too little light; move your Jade Plant to a brighter, more stable spot. It’s natural for older leaves near the base to dry and fall off over time, as new growth appears at the tips. If you spot white residue or pests like mealybugs, gently wipe the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them. With consistent light and proper watering, your Jade Plant will quickly recover and continue to thrive.