Crassula Varieties: Different Types of Jade Plants With Pictures

Any Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) will bring some good luck to your succulent garden and may even turn the blackest of thumbs into bright green.

Jade Plants are easy-going with a long lifespan and will add a sculptural effect to your succulent garden – a definite must-have for any plant lover.

There are hundreds of Jade Plant varieties you can choose from; some are easy to find, while others require a fair amount of hunting.

Luckily, once you’ve found all the Jade Plant varieties you like, you can effortlessly propagate the jade plants to share with friends and family.

Since Jade Plants grow equally good inside than outside, you can surround yourself with these thick, woody stems and their oval-shaped leaves – and who knows, maybe you’ll win the lotto! 

Different Types Of Jade Plants

Jade Plants belong to the genus Crassula, and its sub-species is the Crassula ovata with numerous varieties.

Studying the various types of Jade Plants and their specific needs is an excellent idea to guarantee your Jade Plant thrives in your care.

We’ve put up a list of different types of jade plants and their care needs with that in mind.

So, without further ado, let’s get stuck into our favorite jade plant varieties.

Crassula Ovata

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Part shade
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: 3 to 6 feet
• Flowers: White to pink
• Season of interest: Late winter to early spring
• Special note: Height can be maintained with regular trimming
• USDA hardiness zone: 11 to 12

Crassula Ovata is the most common Jade Plant. Nick-named the money plant, it is believed to bring good luck in all money matters.

You should not expect money to grow on this tree despite the name – you’re not that lucky!

Instead, you can expect elongated and rounded leaves 2 inches long each. When grown under the sun, leaves react by having red stains.

Crassula Ovata is a low-maintenance plant you can grow indoors or outdoors but be careful of planting it in poorly draining soil – it won’t tolerate it at all.

Also known as the “money tree plant,” this jade plant can withstand low humidity and even drought.

Crassula Ovata Botany Bay

Crassula ovata Botany Bay or Lucky Jade is a type of Jade plant with coin-shaped leaves that grow dense and bushy.

The leaves have a beautiful light green color with a red outline. In the drier region, the red color becomes more intense.

This variety of Crassula ovata grows slowly. It will be better if you can prune this plant occasionally. During its mature stage, the plant can be 3-feet tall.

They enjoy full, bright light. Since they are drought-tolerant, you don’t have to worry about watering them too frequently.

Use a succulent mix for preparing the soil. You may fertilize them during their growing season. They cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions.

Crassula Ovata ‘Crosby’s Red’

Specifications

Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
Water needs: Regular
Height: Up to 3 feet
Flowers: White
Season of interest: Late fall to early winter
Special note: Enjoys the sun but can suffer from sunburn during heatwaves
USDA hardiness zone: 10 to 11

Crosby’s Red is also referred to as Crosby’s Red, Crosby’s Dwarf, and Red Dwarf Jade Plant.

It looks very similar to the common Jade Plant but is shorter and more compact.

The leaves turn red when exposed to sunlight, and the tint deepens depending on the amount of sun it receives.

Growing Crassula Ovata’ Crosby Red’ is much easier than other varieties because it does not grow tall, even outdoors.

Crosby Red will forgive delayed watering but not soil that gets waterlogged.

Standing in water for long periods of time will make this Jade Plant prone to fungal infections or, worse, root rot.

Crassula Ovata ‘Gollum’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: Up to 3 feet
• Flowers: White or pink
• Season of interest: Late fall to early winter
• Special note: It takes 3 years for this plant to mature and become ready for reproducing.
• USDA hardiness zone: 10 to 11

Look closely, and you’ll see why it’s called a Gollum Jade.

Also known as Ogre’s Ears, this Jade Plant variety has green, tubular leaves with red tips shaped like suction cups.

It sounds like the world’s favorite Ogre, Shrek’s ears, doesn’t it?

Crassula ovata Gollum looks similar to the Crassula ovata Hobbit.

Crassula ovata Gollum is another Jade Plant with green-colored, tubular leaves that have a bent tip and look like a round suction cup.

Also, the Crassula ovata Gollum Jade Plant doesn’t have reddish edges like the Crassula ovata Hobbit. You can grow them with your other indoor plants.

This jade succulent is drought tolerant, and you should try keeping them in well-drained containers or a location with an improved drainage system.

Water the Gollum succulent only when the topsoil looks dry. When these plants reach their matured stage, you can propagate them using stem cuttings.

In the blooming season, you can anticipate some starry white or pink flowers, as long as you provide it with enough sun.

Yes, it can tolerate some shade but do not draw it out too much. It is better to underwater than overwater the Gollum Jade.

Crassula Ovata ‘Hobbit’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: Up to 3 feet
• Flowers: White or pink
• Season of interest: Autumn
• Special note: It requires infrequent repotting since it likes its rootbound.
• USDA hardiness zone: 10 to 11

Crassula Ovata’s ‘Hobbit’ is often mistaken for Gollum Jade, but the difference between these two Jade Plant varieties lies in the shape of their leaves.

Crassula ovata Hobbit are popular types of succulent plants. People grow them as bonsai plants.

You may also recognize them by their other names – Finger Jade, Organ Pipe Jade, or Hobbit Fingers.

Due to their similar appearances, like the Crassula ovata Gollum variety, many people often confuse them for one another.

Though Crassula ovata Hobbit and Gollum have a similar look, you can easily differentiate each other by identifying the trumpet-shaped and tubular leaves.

This variety of Crassula ovata may reach 3-feet tall, and the leaves may grow 2-inches long.

During their blooming period, they produce small, star-shaped flowers that have pinkish or white colors.

They prefer growing under bright sun and even grow well in low humidity – Crassula plants, like other succulents, can propagate this species by stem cuttings.

Hobbit Jade has pipe-like leaves with a slight curl and red tips – some may say it resembles sea corals.

You can grow it indoors or in the garden, and if you provide it with the ideal growing conditions, you will be rewarded with starry flowers.

Hobbit jade is categorized as a desert plant, so fertilizing it regularly may be too much for them.

When you do fertilize, dilute the plant food in water but never during winter when it is in a state of dormancy.

Crassula Ovata ‘Ripple Jade’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: 3 to 4 feet
• Flowers: White
• Season of interest: Spring
• Special note: This Jade Plant type rarely flowers
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Crassula Ovata’ Ripple Jade’ is easily recognizable by its thin and wavy leaves.

Ripple Jade, also called Curly Jade has circular, but twisted leaves which are mainly green with touches of faded blue.

Each leaf has purplish or dark brown edges, and the thick foliage is evergreen.

This variety is deficient maintenance and can be cold-hardy in zone 10.

Ripple Jade is a robust grower but will appreciate protection from hard frost.

The plant is extremely drought-tolerant, and a good indicator of proper watering is needed are the leaves – if it has been without water for too long, the leaves will wrinkle and look far from normal.

This Jade Plant type responds well to pruning, and it will prevent the plant from becoming leggy if there is a light deficiency.

Crassula Ovata ‘Undulata’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to part shade
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: Up to 1.5 feet
• Flowers: Pinkish white
• Season of interest: Summer
• Special note: Fertilize every two weeks during the growing season but not during winter.
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Also known as Jitter Jade, Crassula Ovata ‘Undulata’ is different from other Jade Plant varieties because it appears curly instead of the conventional thick and elongated leaves.

The Crassula Ovata ‘Undulata’ has waxy, wavy leaves that grow very dense but at a slow pace.

The plant can be grown outdoors in containers, as a compact groundcover, or inside as a houseplant.

Jitter Jade, a natural desert plant, enjoys bright sunlight but can tolerate light shade, although it will not look its best.

Dark edges on the leaves start appearing when cooler months enter.

Jitter Jade responds well to pruning, but you may delay the trimming so it can spread to look like a mini Jade Plant tree.

Crassula Ovata ‘Minima’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial sun
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: Up to 2.5 feet
• Flowers: Coral pink
• Season of interest: Early spring to late summer
• Special note: Propagation can be achieved by using a leaf; dry it and leave it on top of some soil – soon roots will form from the leaf.
• USDA hardiness zone: 10 to 11

Crassula Ovata’ Minima’ is referred to as Baby Jade because of its small size compared to other Jade Plant varieties.

Baby Jade starts green but red edges appear on the leaves as the plant matures. The thick, fleshy leaves appear from woody branches.

It is a pretty shrub you can use as a feature pot plant or add interest to a rock garden – it makes a beautiful groundcover.

As a true Crassula, it is hardy and compact and can tolerate some dryness.

Their archenemy is overwatering, and well-draining soil is a must. Showy flowers in pink corals will bloom in ideal conditions.

Crassula Ovata ‘Lemon & Lime’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Partial sun to full sun
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: 1 to 4 feet
• Flowers: White
• Season of interest: Late winter to early spring
• Special note: Fire and deer resistant
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Crassula Ovata’ Lemon & Lime’ is the variegated cultivar of the common Jade plant.

It has the ‘Tricolor’ Jade moniker because of the green leaves bordered with creamy white and tipped with a pink tinge.

Each leaf is shaped like a spoon, and this Jade Plant variety flowers starry white blooms that attract useful insects.

The trunk is stout, suitable for containers, but it is also beautiful as an outdoor specimen.

Crassula Ovata’ Lemon & Lime’ has good heat tolerance and will survive prolonged dry spells.

Although they appreciate regular misting, water requirements can be on the side of neglect. It is succulent, so expect stored water in the leaves.

Crassula Ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: 1 to 3 feet
• Flowers: White to pale pink
• Season of interest: Fall to spring
• Special note: Grows slower than Crassula Ovata
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 12

Award-winning Crassula Ovata’ Hummel’s Sunset’ or Golden Jade is one of the Jade Plant varieties that received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.

The Golden Jade has evergreen leaves, which like the mother variety, are thick, fleshy, and round.

But it is not a one-color leaf but actually has a dash of golden-yellow and red edges.

The intensity of the red outline deepens during colder months.

This Jade Plant blooms starry white flowers in a cluster.

Outdoors, it is one of the showier Crassulas. The Golden Jade tree has a very mild tolerance against frost.

Crassula Ovata ‘Harbour Lights’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: Up to 2 feet
• Flowers: Pinkish white
• Season of interest: Late autumn to early winter
• Special note: The plant is not winter hardy and temperature should not drop below 7 for to survive
• USDA hardiness zone: 10 to 11

Give your house or garden some spice with this cultivar’s distinct red color.

Crassula Ovata’ Harbour Lights’ is a Jade Plant variety that grows green but turns sunset red when cooler months approach.

The trunk is stubby, with small flowers growing on the tips in ideal conditions.

The plant is suitable for seaside planting since it can tolerate sandy soil.

The leaves are relatively small, but the plant grows dense enough to spread like a bonsai. 

Crassula Ovata’ Harbour Lights’ leaves’ store water to use in times of drought.

Crassula Arborescens

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: 4-5 feet
• Flowers: White or dark pink
• Season of interest: Spring or summer
• Special note: Brown spots on leaves indicate insufficient watering
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 12

Crassula Arborescens or Silver Jade is a succulent that needs no trimming.

This Crassula type has a balanced proportion of stubby trunk and grey-green leaves.

The foliage has an almost round shape with red edges that intensify when kept in full sun.

It is rarely cultivated for its flowers, but they are clusters of tiny star-shaped inflorescences when they appear.

Crassula Arborescens or Silver Jade is a very forgiving plant.

It can take drought and poor soil types, but it has to have fast drainage.

You should always have a well-draining pot with drainage holes.

Overwatering is the main culprit for the unsuccessful growth of this succulent.

Silver Jade looks best included in a rock garden but also makes a stunning indoor plant.

Every leaf is covered with fine small greyish hairs that provide the overall silvery look.

One variety is Crassula Arborescens, Blue Hale, which has blue-green foliage.

It is about a foot tall with large discs of leaves – 4 inches each.

Crassula Barbata

Crassula barbata has a unique rosette-like shape, which is different from all other Crassula plants.

You can easily identify this plant in a nursery or garden.

This plant has a beard-like structure. Unlike the other Crassula plants, this variety is either biennial or annual.

The succulent may grow as tall as 1-foot during its blooming period.

The leaves can grow 5-centimeters long and 4-centimeters wide and contain white, long, spreading hairs.

You can easily take care of this Crassula variety. It requires bright indirect light.

If you grow it indoors, then try keeping it near a south-facing window. Inadequate sunlight can inhibit its growth.

The potting mix should be neutral and have an improved drainage system. You may add coco coir to improve the quality of the soil and its drainage.

It cannot tolerate excess water.

Crassula Barklyi

Crassula barklyi has a strange appearance. It resembles a rattlesnake tail. It is widely grown in the area of the Northern Cape of South Africa.

You will find this species in rocky or graveled areas. This perennial succulent has an erect stem that looks similar to the rattlesnake tail.

It grows very slowly and may reach up to 90-millimeters tall.

This Crassula plant needs strong sunlight to grow.

You may either plant it in a sunny location in your garden or place it near the south-facing window.

You should use a rocky blend formulated potting mix for growing this variety indoors. Never overwater it, as excess water can cause root rot.

Crassula Brevifolia

Crassula brevifolia succulents are small, and they are perennials that may reach around 1- to 2-feet in height.

These plants have short, fleshy leaves with rounded edges. When kept under the full sun, the edge will turn reddish.

These succulents produce pinkish flowers during the early fall. Like most Crassula varieties, this one is native to South Africa.

Crassula grows best under bright light.

You should try keeping them under the direct sun. If you don’t keep them in direct sun, they will not produce flowers, and their growth will be stunted.

Like other varieties of succulents, you should grow Crassula brevifolia in well-drained soil because excessive water or stagnant conditions may cause root rot.

Like most succulents, these plants prefer neutral to slightly acidic soil (but they’ll react badly to even extreme pH levels), particularly rocky blends explicitly formulated for succulents.

Water them regularly when they actively grow, which is from April to September.

You may also supply a well-balanced fertilizer during this period to aid in its growth.

Crassula Capitella ‘Campfire’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Regular
• Height: 6 inches
• Flowers: White or red
• Season of interest: Spring, Summer, Fall
• Special note: Slow – or controlled-release fertilizer should be added in the beginning of the growing season
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 12

This one is a stunner in red. Crassula Capitella ‘Campfire’ grows lime green which turns feisty red during colder temperatures.

The succulent leaves emerge from short branches looking like scarlet propellers.

Flowers attract butterflies, bees, and birds but are very tolerant of deer.

Campfire Jade is not suitable to be grown indoors.

It is a spreader, crawling 2-3 feet wide.

That is almost twice its height. Therefore, containing them in pots is not recommended.

Regular misting is welcome, although it can survive dry spells.

Crassula Capitella’ Red Pagoda’ is another cultivar of this species.

This plant has densely stacked, triangular leaves in branches reaching 6 inches.

The tips of the leaves have shades of crimson during cool seasons.

Because of the two shades – red and green – the plant is an eye-catcher in most landscapes.

Separately, if you like red succulents, check out this post on other red succulents that you should know about.

Crassula Commutata

Crassula commutata is also locally known as Tom Thumb. It is a miniature form of a Crassula.

This small tree is found mainly in South Africa and Namibia and is adapted to dry, rocky gardens and hot climates.

The triangular leaves retain moisture that can help these plants withstand drought.

These leaves are the most attractive part of this succulent variety because of their exceptional reddish edge and green colors.

Crassula varieties are considered low maintenance, as they don’t require too much attention.

Tom Thumb prefers growing under the bright sun and in a well-draining potting mix. There is no need to water them too frequently.

Let the soil dry and then water it deeply. Due to their miniature shape, they look great in containers.

Crassula Deceptor

Crassula deceptor is a beautiful succulent plant because of its beautiful leaf color and small shape.

It stays low and readily forms clumps that may reach as tall as 15 centimeters. These are excellent container menu plants to grow indoors.

This Crassula species blooms flowers mainly in the winter season.

The tubular leaves look triangular-ovate to broadly ovate and have pointy shapes. 

These varieties don’t require too much attention for their growth.

Like most Crassula plants, you should also plant them in well-draining soil because excessive water will quickly rot the roots.

Don’t let them sit in wet soils for a more extended period.

Due to their small size, we suggest you grow them in a small pot—also, these plants like a balanced to slightly acidic soil.

Crassula Falcata

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Regular
• Height: 2-3 feet
• Flowers: Red
• Season of interest: Summer and fall
• Special note: The growth rate is slow to medium. Reaching about 12 to 18 inches takes a few years, so it growing leggy is nearly impossible
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Crassula falcata is a variation of Crassula perfoliata.

This variety is also known as the Propeller Plant or Airplane Plant. Crassula falcata is a drought-tolerant succulent plant that can be found in the Eastern Cape.

The leaves have a combination of green and grey colors with a catchy texture.

During the summer months, this succulent plant produces scarlet red and tiny flowers. They can be an excellent addition to your indoor garden.

Crassula Falcata is famous under gardeners as a propeller plant or airplane plant because of the easy cultivation innate to Crassulas.

Moreover, this Jade Plant type’s extraordinary foliage is angled and twisted in opposite pairs creating the propeller look.

Usually, it is gray-green that overlaps.

The plant rarely flowers, but when it does, dense clusters of red flowers appear in the center of the ‘propellers.’

This type of Jade Plant requires bright light to develop fully, but excess warmth should be avoided, even in winter.

As a houseplant, it prefers normal room temperature and can tolerate short bouts of neglect.

Like other Crassula species, it doesn’t grow very tall. It may reach around 1.5-feet in height, and the leaves may grow in twisted style with a slight angle.

Due to their propeller style, it is also called a propeller plant. You should try keeping them in the right conditions for growing. 

These plants require a lot of light for healthy growth.

Crassula ‘Moonglow’

Crassula Moonglow is a drought-tolerant and attractive variety of the Crassula genus. Its thick grey and green leaves enhance the beauty of this plant.

You will feel the softness of these leaves when you touch them. The leaves grow upright and form a dense cluster of small columns.

These succulents may grow as tall as 12-inches high and 8-inches wide.

Crassula Moonglow is a hybrid of Crassula falcata and Crassula deceptor, and the grower can grow them with little effort.

Since it is a hybrid variety, you may grow it even in the worst conditions.

When these succulents become fully matured, they produce beautiful white or red-colored flowers from the middle of the rosettes. 

Crassula Marnieriana

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Regular
• Height: 15 cm
• Flowers: Pink
• Season of interest: Spring, early Summer, Winter.
• Special note: The plant prefers dry conditions. When grown indoors, window moisture should even be avoided.
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Crassula Marnieriana or Worm Plant presents itself in such a way that even Medusa will be embarrassed.

Also known as the Jade Necklace or Crassula Stacked, Crassula Marnieriana is a cold-hardy plant that can tolerate light frost.

It has vertical, finger-like chubby leaves that have a unique appearance that looks like earthworms sprawling.

Foliage is blushed with pink blooms flowering on the tips.

Worm Plant can be grown in gardens or draped from a hanging basket.

This plant is one of the easiest to grow and propagate but very susceptible to mealybug infestations.

One variety is Crassula Marnieriana’ Hottentot’ that features the same one-of-a-kind appearance and has a medium growth rate.

This Jade Plant variety only reaches 6 inches in height.

Crassula marnierana is commonly known as Chinese Pagoda or Jade Necklace. It is a popular species among succulent plants.

The Jade Necklace is a slow-growing, small succulent that reaches as tall as 20-centimeters.

It has round thick leaves with a combination of green and red colors. During the winter season, these plants produce beautiful pink, star-shaped flowers.

Crassula marnierana thrives well under direct sun, and this species is a perfect one to grow as a houseplant.

You should try placing them in a spot that receives morning and afternoon sun.

Also, avoid placing them under the midday sun as the intense heat can scorch the fleshy leaves.

These succulents prefer a dry environment, not a humid one. Never overwater these plants as excess water can rot the roots.

Crassula Marginalis Rubra

Crassula marginalis rubra is one of the most beautiful succulents and is locally known as Calico Kitten.

This variety is popular primarily due to its heart-shaped leaves. The leaves have a unique color combination of pink, purple, and green.

It is native to South Africa and not that hardy. They are comparatively slow growers, but if you can take care of them properly, then they will grow well.

Unlike other Crassula varieties, this species requires a lot of attention and maintenance.

You may grow them in hanging pots because they don’t grow upright.

You should supply the right amount of light because any imbalances will be responsible for ruining their variegation.

Don’t overwater them and plant them in a well-draining potting mix.

Crassula Muscosa

Crassula mucosa is a popular houseplant that is native to Southern Africa.

The name Mucosa comes from its moss-like structure. It is straightforward to care for and always looks clean.

In addition, this species can be a great addition to indoor gardens. The chain of Crassula mucosa grows as tall as 12-inches and as wide as 8-inches.

The leaves are light green, and the color relies heavily on the amount of light.

We suggest you place this plant in the southern window of your house.

If the grower can provide them with the right conditions, then these plants will grow ideally.

Remember that if you grow them indoors, then they are less likely to bloom. Also, don’t place them at a temperature of more than 60-degrees Fahrenheit.

Crassula Mesembryanthemoides

Crassula mesembryanthemoides is one of the most beautiful varieties of Crassula that has teardrop-like leaves.

The leaves are covered in thin hairs that offer excellent protection from the sun. This species grows well on woody stems.

This succulent plant can grow up to 1.5-feet tall. Due to its shrub-like structure, it can be a great addition to your indoor garden.

Like most Crassula plants, it blooms during the fall and winter and produces small, beautifully colored white, bell-shaped flowers.

This plant grows best under partial shade or indirect light. When grown outdoors, you should plant them in such a place that receives partial sun.

Don’t overwater these plants. Follow the soak and dry method for irrigating.

Crassula Multicava

Crassula multicava is a beautiful perennial plant commonly known as the Pitted Crassula, London Pride, or Fairy Crassula.

It grows pretty fast compared to other succulents. It forms a beautiful mat. The leaves have a beautiful green color and grow in opposite directions.

During the winter months, Crassula multicava blooms pink to white star-shaped flowers.

This succulent species should be grown under full sun, and it can tolerate as low as 25-degrees Fahrenheit. You should water it when the soil looks dry.

Moreover, you don’t have to worry about fertilizing them because they can grow happily even in rock gardens.

The potting mix should have an excellent drainage system.

Crassula ‘Jade Tower’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: 10 cm
• Flowers: Pink or white
• Season of interest: Late winter
• Special note: Overwatering is fatal. Allow soil to dry completely before watering.
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

A hybrid Jade Plant between Crassula Perfoliata x Crassula Rupestris ssp. Marieriana, Crassula ‘Jade Tower’ is an upright plant with erect leaves forming columns.

The leaves are green but look frosted with white papillae.

Small, pinkish flowers appear, giving the plant its delicate look during blooming seasons.

Enjoy it outdoors or indoors but avoid extreme frost and hot midafternoon sun.

Like most Jade Plant types, you can easily propagate them by division, offsets, or leaf cuttings.

Crassula Pellucida

Crassula pellucida is a beautiful variety of low-growing Crassula plants.

It is a lovely succulent species, and the beauty enhances as the plants become mature.

You will see the yellow or green fleshy leaves with a  pink to red color around the edges.

During the spring, these succulent Crassula plants produce star-shaped, whitish flowers.

Crassula pellucida looks pretty if you can maintain them well. Like the other Crassula plants, you must water it carefully.

These varieties need a minimum of 5 to 6 hours of direct sunlight. Grow in a spot that receives a lot of light. A sunny indoor location seems perfect.

You may fertilize it during the spring, considering the growing and blooming period for these Crassula plants.

Crassula Perforata

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Water needs: Occasional to regular
• Height: 1 to 2 feet
• Flowers: Pale yellow
• Season of interest: Spring
• Special note: Most gardeners choose to cut of dried stems after flowering because it tends to be displeasing to the eyes
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Crassula Perforata’ String of Buttons’ is a sprawling shrub with a unique appearance; leaves are stacked on top of each other.

Crassula perforata is locally known as Necklace Vine or Strong of Buttons. This variety is native to South Africa.

The leaves of Crassula perforata look like pasta and necklaces with grey and green colors. You may find white or pink dots across the margin.

The leaves grow in a tight and spiral formation on the stems. 

It prefers bright sunlight to grow. The pink color may become more intense if you supply them with more sunlight.

At first, the plant grows upright and slowly sprawls. During the mature stage, these plants can grow up to 1-foot long.

They are known as outdoor Crassula. So, you should better grow them in your garden rather than grow them indoors.

The chubby, triangular leaves crawl upward in spirals, and the edges have a rosy-pink tinge.

In its natural habitat or with proper care in your garden, a cluster of pale-yellow flowers may bloom.

Crassula, in general, is a drought-tolerant plant but the String of Buttons Jade Plant variety is also deer resistant.

With its slightly faster growth rate than other Jade Plant varieties, this plant is perfect for hanging baskets – the erect stems will drape over time.

One popular hybrid is Crassula Perforata’ Buddha’s Temple’.

The stacks of leaves are more compact, forming square columns.

This resembles Chinese temples, thus the name.

It blooms pink small flowers in summer, pushing the plant’s height to at least 6 inches.

Crassula Perforata’ Variegeta’ is a cultivar with variegated leaves of cream and green with a reddish tinge.

It grows 4 inches tall, making it a perfect mini houseplant.

Crassula Picturata ‘Tiger Jade’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: 2 inches
• Flowers: Pink or white
• Season of interest: Summer
• Special note: At the beginning of its growing season, fertilize it only once with a slow-release fertilizer
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

Crassula Picturata’ Tiger Jade’ is a neat succulent perfect for a meticulous gardener.

It is a short-growing Jade Plant variety with gorgeous leaves forming a pagoda-like structure that is very compressed.

These leaves are pointed, green, and heavily dotted with the same purple color of its underside. Every single leaf is margined with fine small hairs.

Tiger Jade is powdery to touch, but it may be washed off during watering.

You can keep it glaucous if you make sure not to get water on the leaves.

This type of Jade Plant variety grows beautiful flowers when happy but turns overall reddish when stressed.

It has a spreading habit ranging from 6-8 inches, compensating for its short height.

Crassula Portulacaria

Crassula portulacaria is also known as bonsai Crassula because you can give it a beautiful bonsai look.

This bonsai Crassula variety requires lower maintenance than other Crassula types. The leaves of this species are thick and small.

This species grows fast and even can survive nicely if you neglect it.

Due to their easy growing habit, they can be quickly established in your garden and bloom. 

This plant requires full sunlight to grow. Afternoon or bright shade will not be a problem if you can supply sufficient light throughout the day.

Their leaves can turn red when receiving a lot of sunlight. Since it is a succulent plant, it retains moisture in its leaves.

You should water them when the soil looks dry. You may also prune it to maintain it is beautiful and small-tree-like shape.

Crassula Pubescens ‘Bear Paw’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Partial shade to full sun
• Water needs: Moderate
• Height: 6 inches
• Flowers: Yellow
• Season of Interest: Spring
• Special note: Repotting is necessary because it can get too crowded
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

The Bear Paw Jade of the family, Crassula Pubescens, is a low-growing shrub used mostly as a groundcover but loved in containers as well.

The foliage starts green but eventually leans to burgundy when under the sun.

The leaves are fuzzy and slender, about 104 inches at the longest.

Crassula pubescens ssp has a unique appearance and is native to the southern Karoo area of South Africa.

This variety is also known as Jersey Pigmyweed. It looks attractive mainly because of its reddish leaves.

This perennial succulent blooms beautiful white flowers during the spring. It can be a great addition to indoor gardens.

Radicans Crassula pubescens ssp is another sub-variety of this species and is also an attractive type of Crassula.

Crassula pubescens can become more beautiful if you can take care of it well. This plant requires careful watering.

Excess watering can kill this plant, and underwatering can cause leaves to fall.

Like other succulents, you can follow the popular soak and dry technique for this Crassula. They thrive well under the full sun.

The plant grows very compact and spreads slowly.

Crassula Pubescens is a very nice flowering succulent that shows a ball of yellow florets in good conditions.

This Jade Plant variety requires well-draining soil and a bright spot protected from harsh afternoon rays.

Crassula Rupestris

Crassula rupestris ssp. is commonly known as Crassula Baby Necklace, Kebab Bush, or Rosary Vine because of its small necklace-like shape.

It is native to the Eastern Cape region of South Africa.

It is one of the most popular varieties among Crassula plants and is grown mainly as ornamental plants.

This plant has multiple branches and slowly spills over the pots. Crassula perforata is regarded as the cousin of Crassula rupestris ssp.

This Crassula plant grows happily under bright light. Nevertheless, you may also keep them in bright shade.

This species can tolerate mild frost, but it is better to keep them indoors during the winter.

Like the other succulents, this Crassula cannot withstand stagnant conditions.

Water these plants thoroughly at once, and then let the soil dry before the next irrigation.

Crassula Sarmentosa ‘Comet’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Water needs: Regular
• Height: 1 foot
• Flowers: White
• Season of interest: Late fall or early winter
• Special note: The plant was named by Gordon Rowley
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 12

Crassula Sarmentosa’ Comet’ has the most striking foliage in the Crassula family.

The green center is sandwiched between lime green.

It has reddish stems that may trail down.

When grown in full sun, pink to red thin margins surround each leaf which is also ragged if inspected closely.

White flowers bloom from pink buds in late fall.

This plant tends to be leggy; when growing indoors, it is best to prune it regularly.

You can also easily grow it as a groundcover requiring very minimal attention.

Crassula sarmentosa Comet is a beautiful variegated type of succulents. The leaves have an attractive color combination of green and yellow.

The reddish stems enhance the beauty of this variety and may grow 1-foot tall. Each stem bears 1-inch variegated leaves.

In late fall, these succulents bloom small, white flowers. 

You must maintain the light intensity to maintain its variegated colors.

Never keep them in the scorching heat of the mid-summer temperatures. They don’t like strong sunlight.

Soils must have an improved drainage system because, like the other plants, these Crassula plants cannot tolerate stagnant conditions.

Crassula Springtime

Crassula springtime is a popular variety of Crassula succulents because of its beautiful pink flowers.

Many people plant it in their indoor gardens in a container. The species may grow tall, but it will happen slowly.

It is considered a cross between the perfoliata and rupestris variety.

These plants are mainly grown in rock gardens. It blooms catchy, pinkish flowers in the winter.

Like other Crassula, it prefers bright or filtered light. You need to water them when the topsoil becomes dry.

Overwatering these varieties can cause root rot or fungal diseases. You should prepare a potting mix with an improved drainage system.

However, as these plants like to be root bound, you won’t need to repot them often.

In the winter months, protect your plant against frost.

Crassula Tetragona

This succulent species is widely distributed in the South African region, mainly around the Orange River and Kei River.

The name Tetragona has come from the phyllotaxy arrangement of the leaves. You may also know it by another name – Miniature Pine Tree.

Many people grow Crassula tetragona as an ornamental plant. It may grow approximately 3-feet tall.

The color of the leaves varies from dark green to green, and during the summer, the plant produces beautiful, small, white flowers.

It prefers bright sun and can survive in mild frost. You don’t have to worry about the pests except for mealy bugs.

While growing them indoors, try using cacti mix for planting. You may fertilize them occasionally. 

Portulacaria Afra ‘Porkbush’

Specifications

• Sun exposure: Partial shade to full sun
• Water needs: Occasional
• Height: 12 feet
• Flowers: White, pink, or purple.
• Season of interest: Late spring or early summer
• Special note: Rarely flowers during cultivation
• USDA hardiness zone: 9 to 11

True Jade Plants are under the Crassula genus, but Portulacaria Afra or Porkbush is also referred to as a Dwarf Jade.

They have similar appearance and growing characteristics but are unrelated.

Many mistakenly purchase this, thinking it is part of the Crassula family.

The Porkbush has woody red stems from where small, round, and glossy green leaves appear.

The plant spreads after reaching the optimum height. That is why trimming is advisable before it gets leggy.

In their native habitat, Portulacaria Afra serves as food for elephants and is thus also called Elephant Bush.

This plant comes in two types – miniature and variegata.

Portulacaria Afra’ Decumbent’ is a cultivar with apple-green colored leaves.

They are glossy, appearing from branches that spread candidly but neatly, reaching 6-8 feet. 

Portulacaria Afra’ Decumbent’ is a soft shrub that cannot withstand hard frosts; therefore, it is wise to bring it indoors where it can be protected.

When indoors, it should receive bright light and be in well-draining soil.

Portulacaria Afra Variegata or Rainbow Bush is a variegated type that grows 12 feet high or even higher.

The yellow-green leaves have cream highlights stemming from purplish red stalks. Rainbow Bush becomes very dense, making it difficult to kill.

Prune it regularly to keep the form or allow it to branch and cascade like messy hair.

FAQs

WARNING: Jade Plants may be potentially toxic to humans and pets!

Final Thoughts on Jade Plant Types

There are hundreds of Jade Plant varieties.

The reasons why Jade Plants are so popular include the easy cultivation, the plants’ adaptability, and their incredible charm as a succulent.

Jade plants are easy maintenance plants that deserve to be in any home.

It will surely be a fantastic addition to our outdoor or indoor garden.

Before we forget to mention, there are monthly succulent clubs that you can subscribe to and have your favorite jade plant delivered right to your door.

References