The jade plant may not be hardy outside of USDA zones 10 or 11 but it is an incredibly tough and tolerant houseplant for our homes. It has an Asian or contemporary flair but is suitable with almost any décor depending on the container style used.
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Width: |
Can grow 1 to 3 feet wide under cultivation depending on growing conditions. |
Height: |
10 feet in its native range in Africa but under cultivation it is limited by its environment. Typically 2 to 4 feet. |
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Leaves: |
Opposite, simple gray-green leaves are oval and thick or succulent. Often has a thin red edge. |
Flowers: |
White or light pink terminal flowers are held in a terminal cluster. Plants are not known to flower when young. |
Fruit: |
Infrequent and not showy. |
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Soil: |
Prefers a sandy acidic soil, tolerates dryness extremely well. Does not need to be repotted often. |
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Exposure: |
Bright to direct light is best. Under low light growth will become weak and the leaf canopy thin. |
Habit: |
Most frequently grown as a houseplant or bonsai. The jade is typically only slightly taller than wide under optimal growing conditions and looks the most balanced when displayed in a low heavy bowl or container. Extremely tolerant of dry soil. |
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Diseases and insects: |
Mealy bugs and scale can become a problem if infected. Most often plant failure is due to low light and over-watering. |