Thought you knew everything about the charming Crassula ovata? Here are things we bet you didn’t know about jade plants!
Jade plants are a favorite for homes and offices—not just because they’re low-maintenance, but also for their lush, tree-like shape and good-luck reputation. If you’ve been around succulents, you’ve probably heard about their role in Feng Shui. But there’s more to jade than meets the eye!
Things You Didn’t Know About Jade Plants
1. A Symbol of Prosperity and Good Vibes
Jade plants are more than just pretty decor—they’re seen as powerful good luck charms. In Feng Shui and many cultural traditions, their coin-like leaves symbolize wealth and success. That’s why they’re a popular pick for gifts during housewarmings or new business ventures.
Most people believe that keeping jade plants near their front door or in the southeast corner of their home invites prosperity.
2. Tangible Health Benefits
Besides adding a bow to your space, jade plants quietly improve your indoor air. Through transpiration, they release moisture into the room, which helps fight dry air, especially in winter. They’re also great for easing allergies, calming stress, and even improving focus—no wonder they’re called desk buddies!
Fun fact: Research shows that having greenery like jade plants nearby can boost productivity by up to 15%.
3. Sunlight Is the Secret Sauce
Contrary to the myth, jade plants don’t love dark corners. In fact, too little light makes them leggy and dull. These sun-lovers thrive in bright spots—think sunny windowsills or under grow lights. The right amount of sunlight can keep your jade looking extra pretty with a reddish tinge on the leaf tips.
Give your jade plant 4–6 hours of indirect sunlight a day to keep it happy and compact.
4. Cut Down on Watering
Now this is where succulent enthusiasts often tend to slip up—too much love in the form of water. Their plump, fleshy leaves actually store water so they can tolerate drought periods. They simply do not need extra hydration,
This is even more true during winter months when succulents go dormant and are not growing actively. Let the top 1–2 inches of soil dry out before watering again.
5. They Can Live For Generations
While you might know of the Christmas Cactus living for decades, the jade plant is another succulent that can literally be part of your family legacy. Just with the right care, Crassula ovata can not only survive for decades but can even outlive its owners!
Their slow and steady growth can be a symbol of continuity and connection across generations, where you can proudly say you inherited a jade plant from your grandparents!
Some jade plants have been recorded to live over 70–100 years! That’s not just a plant; it’s a piece of family history.
6. It Blooms in Winter
Yes, the jade plant does go dormant in the winter, so you may be wondering how it can bloom during this time. Well, there’s a catch. It is only partly dormant.
What this means is that as the colder months bring in shorter days, you will find your jade plant blooming with gorgeous, tiny, star-shaped flowers in shades of white or pink—right when winter days feel the dullest.
However, blooming typically happens when the plant is mature (often over 3–5 years) and gets cool nights, dry soil, and enough light.
7. Super Easy to Propagate
The best part about having a jade plant is that you can create many more of them quite easily! A fallen leaf or trimmed stem can grow into a whole new plant. Just let the cutting callus for a day or two, then plant it in dry, well-draining soil. Roots will form before you know it!
Gift Idea: These baby jades make adorable, meaningful gifts for friends and family.
8. A Wonderland of Rare Varieties
The classic jade is just the tip of the iceberg. Check out ‘Variegata’ with creamy-white streaks or ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ with golden leaves that turn red with sun exposure. If you have a tiny space, then simply go for the Dwarf jade or create a mini bonsai.
And for something quirky, try the Tolkien-inspired ‘Gollum’ or ‘Hobbit’ jades with their finger-like, curled leaves.
9. Cold Drafts Are a Big No
Yes, the jade plant is usually quite resilient, but drafts are where this plant says, “Nope!”
Jade plants might be tough, but they don’t like the cold. A chilly draft from a window or AC vent can shock them, causing leaf drop or mushy spots. Keep them away from breezy areas and make sure indoor temps stay above 10°C (50°F).
10. Needs Cleaning Once in a While
Dust may seem harmless, but on jade leaves, it blocks sunlight and slows growth. Gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth once or twice a month to keep them breathing and glowing. Think of it as a spa treatment!
Bonus: Cleaning is a great time to inspect your plant for early signs of pests like mealybugs or scale insects. Early detection = easy control.
So these were some of the most awesome facts we found about the jade plant. Do you know of some incredible facts about this plant? Let us know in the comments below!
