Crassula ovata (Lucky Plant)

Plant name: Jade Plant / Lucky Plant
Botanical name: Crassula ovata

Description

• A woody, succulent shrub with thick, oval, glossy green leaves

• Leaves grow in opposite pairs on fleshy stems

• Mature plants develop a tree-like form with thick trunks

• Leaf edges may turn red in strong sunlight or mild stress

• Very long-lived and slow growing, but extremely hardy

Origin

• South Africa & Mozambique

Care Guide

Light

• Bright light to direct sun (3–6 hours)

• Morning sun is ideal; stronger light improves leaf color

• Low light causes weak, stretched growth

Water

• Water only when soil is completely dry

• Overwatering is the biggest cause of failure

• Summer: every 7–10 days (depending on heat)

• Winter: much less

Soil

• Well-draining succulent/cactus mix

• Best Indian mix:
  Garden soil + coarse sand + perlite/pumice

Pot

• Pot with drainage holes is mandatory

• Terracotta pots help prevent overwatering

Temperature

• Ideal: 22–38°C

• Protect from frost and continuous monsoon rain

Fertilizer

• Once a month during active growth

• Use diluted cactus/succulent fertilizer

Pruning

• Can be pruned to shape like a mini bonsai

• Pruning encourages branching

Propagation

• Very easy from stem or leaf cuttings

• Let cuttings dry 1–2 days before planting

Common Problems

• Soft, yellow leaves: overwatering

• Shriveled leaves: underwatering

• Leggy growth: insufficient light

• Leaf drop after shifting: normal stress response

Extra Tip (India)

• Keep in full morning sun + afternoon shade

• Raise pots during monsoon to avoid waterlogging