Volkensii Jade
crassula volkensii
Also known as: ["Volkensii Crassula","Jade Plant"]
Overview
A succulent species native to East Africa, characterized by thick, fleshy leaves and a compact growth habit.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Crassula |
| Botanical Name: | Crassula volkensii |
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":"10–35°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 succulent or cactus mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: 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; can tolerate some direct sun in early morning or late afternoon.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid direct midday sun; adjust for seasonal light changes.
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 pumice or perlite
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
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
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 waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
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; new growth in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use indirect light; maintain humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh soil to refresh nutrients.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly 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 root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 or coarse sand to improve drainage; mix in organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration; stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
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 volkensii may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause mild distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Crassula volkensii may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort in pets.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCrassula volkensii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested by humans. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Crassula volkensii toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Crassula volkensii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Crassula volkensii require direct sunlight?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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