13 Unique Types Of Jade Plants That You May Have Never Heard Of Before
In the world of indoor gardening, certain plant species have earned a special place in our hearts – and our homes. The jade plant family, whether you call them money plants, friendship plants, or simply jades, is one such group that has consistently proven itself to be a mainstay among green thumbs.
What makes these plants so endearing is their ability to thrive with minimal effort on your part. They crave sunlight, but beyond that, they’re not particularly fussy about anything else.
In fact, jade plants have been known to survive (and even flourish) with infrequent watering and fertilization. And as if that weren’t enough, they also require little to no pruning.
But what really sets these plants apart is their incredible diversity. Our list of 13 top-notch succulents showcases a stunning range of growth habits and foliage types – from the delicate and lacy to the thick and fleshy.
With such an impressive array of options, it’s little wonder that jade plants have become beloved by indoor gardeners everywhere.
Key Takeaways
Despite the diversity among individual jade plant species, certain characteristics and traits remain consistent across all types. As you explore the world of jade plants, keep these five commonalities in mind: the defining genus Crassula, the succulent nature of their leaves, their origins in South Africa’s hot and arid climate, their low-maintenance care, and the numerous cultivars with unique growth patterns.
Each species may have its own distinct name and features, but these underlying similarities are what tie them together as a group.
13 Fortune-Filled Types of Jade Plants that Might Just Bring You Good Luck
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The list begins with the original Crassula ovata, a species known as the true jade plant. Interestingly, it hails from South Africa, where it thrives in hotter climates similar to USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12. Despite its foreign origin, this plant has gained immense popularity globally, including much of the United States. Its widespread appeal stems from a harmonious blend of natural beauty and low-maintenance care requirements.
This species serves as the foundation for many other jade plant cultivars that will be discussed later in the list. Notably, it shares characteristics with other Crassula genus members classified under the jade plant family. As an ideal choice for novice indoor gardeners, Crassula ovata embodies the quintessential jade plant traits and provides a solid starting point for those new to jade plants.
With this foundation established, let’s proceed to explore some of the striking ornamental features that have emerged from cultivating this species.
Botany Bay (Crassula ovata ‘Botany Bay’)
The Botany Bay cultivar, a recent addition to the nursery trade within the last two decades, boasts an impressive feature set that distinguishes it from other Crassula ovata species. The most striking aspect of this jade plant is the unique leaf coloration, characterized by large and thick leaves with a rich green hue that can occasionally shift towards yellow-green. However, it’s the subtle yet distinctive dark red tracing along the leaf margin that truly sets Botany Bay apart.
This vibrant edge may not always be prominent, but its presence doesn’t diminish the plant’s natural beauty. What’s fascinating is that this red tint tends to become more pronounced in specific environments, such as extreme heat and color, which can amplify the plant’s visual appeal.
Gandalf Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Gandalf’)
While many plants may evoke a sense of serenity and normalcy, this trio of jade varieties takes its inspiration from J. R. R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings series to create a truly otherworldly appearance. The first in this series is the Gandalf jade plant, which boasts thicker, tubular leaves that set it apart from its more slender-leafed counterparts.
This unique characteristic not only makes the Gandalf jade stand out but also adds an extra layer of fascination to what was already an intriguing group of plants.
Gollum Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’)
In the Lord of the Rings series, a certain character’s unsettling appearance is mirrored in the foliage of the Gollum jade plant. Its long, rounded leaves have a spindly quality, reminiscent of eerie fingers that seem to belong to its namesake. While this eerie aesthetic might suggest a darker tone, surprisingly, this plant thrives in sunny conditions, much like other jade plants.
As such, when planting the Gollum jade plant, be sure to place it in an area receiving warm sunlight for most of the day.
Hobbit Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Hobbit’)
The Hobbit jade plant brings our Lord of the Rings-inspired trilogy to a close, but don’t be fooled – this charming plant is just as captivating as its predecessors. Its unique foliage features linear, tubular shapes with a subtle crook at the end, each adorned with saucer-like openings that can take on a reddish hue, adding depth and visual interest.
One of the most endearing aspects of the Hobbit jade plant is its humble beginnings – it starts small, presenting as a cluster of tiny, upward-growing green shoots that fill their container. As the plant matures, it develops woody stems and branches, gradually adopting a miniature tree-like form that’s sure to delight.
Pink Beauty Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Pink Beauty’)
While not belonging to a film series, the Pink Beauty Jade shares its species – Crassula ovata – with other members. However, this cultivar stands out from the crowd due to its striking features. Upon closer inspection, it’s clear why this variety is so distinguishable. The leaves of the Pink Beauty Jade are indeed lovely, but its floral characteristics truly set it apart from others in its family.
Its rounded, shrub-like growth habit is adorned with clusters of star-shaped flowers boasting a delicate pinkish-white hue.
Skinny Fingers Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Skinny Fingers’)
The Crassula ovata species has more to offer than just the skinny fingers jade plant, which is its final cultivar on our list. Despite this, it’s hard to imagine continuing your search for the perfect plant once you lay eyes on this striking beauty. The skinny fingers jade plant boasts long, slender leaves and star-shaped flowers in winter, characteristics that are reminiscent of other jade plants we’ve discussed.
However, its unique charm is undeniable, making it a strong contender for finding your new favorite plant.
Silver Dollar Jade (Crassula arborescens)
Jade plants, particularly the silver dollar variety, are often referred to as ‘money plants’ due to their unique features and namesakes. One such characteristic is the rounded, silvery leaves of the silver dollar jade plant, which resemble silver dollar coins. The addition of a magenta streak along each leaf’s edge adds visual contrast, making this species stand out from others in its genus. As part of the Crassula arborescens family, silver dollar jade plants require specific care to thrive.
Soil moisture is crucial, with these plants preferring a well-draining medium that prevents waterlogged conditions and subsequent root rot. In fact, overwatering can be particularly detrimental, making it essential to strike a balance when caring for your silver dollar jade plant.
Blue Bird Jade (Crassula arborescens ‘Blue Bird’)
While taxonomists may debate the exact classification of the blue bird jade plant, one thing is undeniable – its striking beauty. The species, likely to be Crassula arborescens, boasts bluish leaves that can undulate in a mesmerizing pattern. Additionally, it produces delicate white flowers that provide a lovely contrast to its leafy foliage. When grown outdoors, the blue bird jade plant can reach impressive heights of two to three feet tall.
However, its intolerance to temperatures below 20 degrees Fahrenheit has led many gardeners in the United States and Europe to cultivate it indoors for nearly a century. This relatively large species makes it an attractive option for those who enjoy the art of bonsai, allowing them to create intricate, miniature versions of this stunning plant.
Jade Necklace (Crassula marnieriana ‘Jade Necklace’)
While jade plants are often associated with a specific form, they can actually exhibit a wide range of shapes and sizes. One fascinating example is the jade necklace, which defies expectations by growing with long, slightly erect segments that often sprawl outward from its container. This plant’s unique appearance is further enhanced by its vibrant light green color and subtle red undertones, making it a striking addition to any indoor space.
What’s more, the jade necklace thrives in dry air environments, which makes it an excellent choice for indoor living spaces where humidity levels are typically lower than outside. Its ability to flourish in these conditions only adds to its allure as a decorative and low-maintenance option.
Jade Tower (Crassula marnieriana ‘Jade Tower’)
While sharing a common lineage with the jade necklace, the jade tower exhibits distinct differences. One notable disparity lies in its leaf structure: whereas the jade necklace’s leaves are slender and sprawling, the jade tower’s foliage is generally thicker and more robust. Additionally, the jade tower tends to grow more upright, distinguishing it from its trailing counterpart. This structural integrity is a hallmark of the jade tower’s growth habit.
Despite these differences, both plants can be affected by pests like mealy bugs. However, fungal diseases and root rot are a greater concern for the jade tower, particularly when its environment becomes too humid or waterlogged. To mitigate these issues, it’s essential to strike a balance between moisture levels in the air and soil, ensuring your jade tower plant thrives without succumbing to these common problems.
Fairy Crassula (Crassula multicava)
As we near the conclusion of our exploration, it’s clear that fairy crassula (Crassula multicava) is another species within the jade plant family that showcases its unique characteristics. Unlike the typical fleshy foliage found on jade plants, the leaves of fairy crassula are small and round, often exhibiting a subtle thinness. What’s truly remarkable is the leaf’s propensity for showcasing vibrant color variation – sometimes simultaneously displaying shades of green and light purple.
Beyond its striking foliage, fairy crassula also develops long stalks that rise above the leafy canopy, supporting delicate light pink flowers that bloom annually. These tiny blooms typically feature four pointed petals, resulting in a soft, fluffy texture that adds to the plant’s visual appeal.
Campfire Crassula (Crassula capitella ‘Campfire’)
For gardeners who prioritize vibrant colors in their plants, the campfire crassula is a standout option within the jade plant family. Its striking red and yellow hues are truly eye-catching, with leaves that can occasionally abandon green altogether, opting instead for intense shades of fiery color. Not only does this plant bring a pop of color to your home, but it’s also surprisingly low-maintenance.
Like other jades, it thrives on minimal watering and pruning, making it an excellent choice for those who don’t have a green thumb. Additionally, the campfire crassula is slightly more adaptable to shade than its relatives, tolerating partial shade whereas many other jade plants require full sunlight. Whether you’re looking to add a splash of color or a dash of ease in your plant care routine, this unique specimen is certainly worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Jade Plants
Are there Male and Female Jade Plants?
Jade plants are classified as dioecious, a characteristic that defines their reproductive approach. Unlike many other plants, each jade plant is either exclusively male or female, lacking both male and female reproductive organs simultaneously. As a result, jade plants don’t self-pollinate, requiring at least two individuals – one male and one female – to facilitate pollination and reproduction.
This distinctive trait may seem unusual compared to the majority of the plant kingdom, yet it’s not dissimilar from many animal species that also exhibit separate male and female individuals. For instance, humans, birds, and even insects often display this dioecious pattern.
What is the Most Expensive Jade Plant?
While it’s impossible to pinpoint the most expensive individual jade plant in history, whispers of extraordinary prices have garnered attention. Some sources claim that top-tier jade plants can fetch several thousand dollars, although such occurrences are exceptionally rare. In reality, jade plants tend to be relatively affordable. Their modest price tags, combined with their striking appearance and low-maintenance care routine, contribute to their enduring popularity.
How Do I Identify a Jade Plant?
As you become more familiar with jade plants, you’ll quickly develop an eye for spotting them. While each species and cultivar has its distinct characteristics, many shared traits will become apparent. A key identifier is that jade plants are succulents, characterized by thick, fleshy leaves that differ from those of other plant types. These leaves are often rounded in shape and feature a glossy texture, setting jade plants apart from others.
Do Jade Plants Have Babies?
While jade plants are capable of reproduction, they often don’t get the opportunity due to various factors. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean you can’t multiply your existing jade plants. Although pollination isn’t a viable option for your jade plant, you can successfully propagate it through cuttings.
By taking small cuttings from well-established jade plants and planting them in soil when the conditions are favorable, you can encourage these tiny shoots to take root and grow into new, miniature versions of your original jade plant – effectively creating ‘baby’ jade plants that are identical to their parent.
Are All Jade Plants Lucky?
Jade plants have developed a symbolic significance over time, with many people regarding them as lucky. Some take this notion further, believing that the plant can bring good fortune and wealth. Interestingly, some individuals attribute the amount of luck brought by a jade plant to its placement. While it’s natural to have differing opinions on the matter, it’s essential to acknowledge that one jade plant is not inherently luckier than another.
Beyond their perceived luckiness, jade plants are both ubiquitous and intriguing within the indoor gardening community. As a result, they offer a wealth of information for enthusiasts to explore. For those already familiar with jade plants, this knowledge can serve as a refresher, while newcomers will find valuable insights in the following sections that delve into the many fascinating facts surrounding these plants.
By continuing to read, you’ll take a significant step towards becoming an expert on all things jade plant.
13 Luscious Types of Jade Plants with Leaves that Are Thick and Fleshy
While jade plants are often thought to be uniform, they actually exhibit a surprising amount of diversity. Each variety boasts unique characteristics, such as distinct growth habits or leaf shapes and colors. This array of options is further enhanced by the ease with which jade plants can be maintained. As a result, selecting one of these varieties will not only bring a touch of lush greenery to your home’s interior, but also provide a low-maintenance addition that can thrive under your care.