Milky Jade
crassula lactea
Also known as: ["Milk Jade","Milky Jade Plant"]
Overview
A succulent plant with fleshy, milky-white leaves and a compact growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Crassula |
| Botanical Name: | Crassula lactea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright location or outdoor in sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix like cactus or succulent soil with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun; reduce light in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; move indoors if outdoor light becomes too intense.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct midday sun; provide shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid wetting leaves.
Soil
well-draining succulent mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; use pots with drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerate 50–90°F (10–32°C); avoid frost.
Protect from frost; avoid drafts; maintain moderate temperatures year-round.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Let cuttings callus before planting; use sterile tools; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged parts.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth, dead leaves, and encourage bushier form; prune after flowering or in spring.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh well-draining soil.
Checklist
Choose right pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; use organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or discoloration (yellowing/browning).
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; provide gentle warmth if possible.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; rinse soil occasionally.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; feed monthly in spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Crassula lactea may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant contains compounds that can cause discomfort but are not considered highly toxic to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Crassula lactea by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines but can cause mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula lactea contains small amounts of irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The plant is not considered highly toxic to humans but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crassula lactea toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crassula lactea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Crassula lactea require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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