For stem cuttings: With a clean sharp knife, cut a stem a few inches long just above a leaf node.

Propagate during warmer months and use cuttings that are healthy and disease-free. Stem propagation tends to be quicker and with a higher rate of success.

Jade plant is easily propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Larger specimens, which can become top heavy, will need heavier pots to keep them from tipping over. If using ceramic or plastic pots, make sure there is adequate drainage and water less frequently. Terracotta clay pots are more porous, allowing soil to dry out quicker, which helps prevent root rot. Jade plants prefer a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH, but are tolerant of different pH levels. For houseplants or outdoor containers, use a cactus or succulent potting mix and add an equal amount of pumice or perlite to improve drainage. They will tolerate native soils that are rocky or sandy. Jade plants need good drainage to prevent root rot. Avoid extremes, which can stress or kill plants. Ideal indoor temperature range is 65-75 degrees F, with nighttime temperatures down to 55 degrees F. Though they prefer dry conditions, jade plants are tolerant of higher humidity. Bring back indoors in fall when nighttime temperatures drop to 50 degrees F. Move to an area such as a patio or porch that receives some direct sun, acclimating slowly to prevent shock and foliage burn. Houseplants benefit from being moved outdoors in summer, responding to the additional sunlight and warmer weather with increased vigor, growth, and color. Jade plants can be grown indoors as houseplants, or outside year-round in warmer regions. All parts of the plant are mildly to highly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Jade plants are mildly toxic to humans, causing nausea if ingested and mild skin irritation for sensitive individuals. Flowers only occur on indoor specimens if they get enough light. Flowers:Ĭlusters of tiny star-shaped white or pale pink flowers bloom from winter to early spring, with some varieties blooming later. Thick fleshy leaves can be round, oval, irregular or crinkled, occurring in colors of green, gold, silver-blue and variegated, often with red or burgundy highlights. Upright or mounding habit, 3 to 12 feet tall and 2 to 6 feet wide. Jade plant is somewhat tolerant of lower light levels. If growing jade plants indoors, place them in a south or east-facing window that receives at least 4 hours of bright light. Allow at least 4-6 hours of direct sun, providing protection during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn. Jade plant grows best in a mix of direct sun and bright indirect light for best vigor and foliage color.

Zones 9-12, depending on the species Light: Native to South Africa and Mozambique Hardiness:

Captivated by E.M. Jade