Silver Dollar Jade
crassula arborescens
Also known as: ["Silver Jade Plant","Round-Leaf Jade"]
Overview
A succulent species native to South Africa, recognized for its round, silvery-green leaves with reddish edges and compact, tree-like growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Crassula |
| Botanical Name: | Crassula arborescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–14 days in summer, every 4–6 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–90°F (10–32°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter (50–55°F).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged parts.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and spent stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use a slightly larger pot to prevent waterlogging.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; use a mix with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or leaf discoloration (yellowing or browning).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a space heater if necessary; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Crassula arborescens may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The bufadienolide compounds in the plant can cause discomfort but are not typically fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Crassula arborescens by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of bufadienolide compounds. While not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula arborescens contains small amounts of bufadienolide compounds, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant is not highly toxic to humans but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Crassula arborescens?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Crassula arborescens need direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Q: Is Crassula arborescens toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, causing gastrointestinal upset.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–14 days in summer, e |
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