The “coin tree” is commonly known as the Jade Plant (Crassula ovata). It is also recognized by other names such as Money Plant, Lucky Plant, or Friendship Tree. Originating from South Africa, the Jade Plant is cherished for its thick, woody stems and fleshy, oval-shaped green leaves, which can sometimes develop a reddish tinge along their edges when exposed to ample light. Its low-maintenance nature makes it appealing for indoor gardeners.
Coin Tree Care Essentials
Light Requirements
Jade plants thrive in bright, indirect light, making a spot near a south or west-facing window ideal. While they tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in cooler climates, intense sun can scorch their leaves. Insufficient light can cause stems to stretch out, leading to leggy growth. A minimum of four hours of direct sunlight daily or 12 hours of bright indirect light is beneficial for optimal growth.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is crucial; both overwatering and underwatering can cause problems. Allow the soil to dry completely between thorough waterings. During active growing seasons (spring and summer), water more frequently, perhaps once every two to three weeks. In fall and winter, when the plant is semi-dormant, water once a month or less. Signs of overwatering include sudden leaf drop, distorted growth, or mushy, yellowing leaves. Shriveled or wrinkled leaves often indicate underwatering.
Soil and Potting
Jade plants require a well-draining soil mix to prevent water accumulation around the roots, which can lead to root rot. A commercial succulent or cactus mix is suitable, or create your own by adding perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to regular potting soil. The soil pH should ideally be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. Choosing a pot with drainage holes is essential, and materials like terracotta or ceramic can enhance drainage. Repot every two to three years, or when roots emerge from drainage holes or the plant becomes top-heavy.
Temperature and Humidity
Jade plants prefer average household temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the day. They tolerate cooler temperatures down to 55°F (13°C) at night or in winter, but prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) should be avoided, as frost can be fatal. While tolerant of average household humidity (around 30-55%), they do not require high humidity. Keep them away from cold drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations.
Fertilization
Jade plants have low fertilization needs. During active growth (spring and summer), fertilize every two to three months, or every four to six weeks. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows, as over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup and damage. Always water the plant before applying fertilizer to protect the roots.
Propagating Your Coin Tree
Propagating jade plants is straightforward, primarily through stem or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings establish plants quicker than leaf cuttings.
Stem Cuttings
Select a healthy stem 3-4 inches long with several leaves. Remove lower leaves, leaving at least two pairs at the top. After cutting, allow the end to callus for a few days to a week in a warm, dry area away from direct sunlight. This prevents rot when planted. Once callused, insert the cutting 1-2 inches deep into well-draining succulent soil. Water sparingly until roots develop (a few weeks), then gradually increase watering as the plant establishes.
Leaf Propagation
For leaf propagation, gently twist a healthy leaf from the main plant, ensuring no part is left on the stem. Allow the leaf to callus for a few days. Then, lay the callused leaf on well-draining succulent soil or slightly nestle the cut end into the soil. Roots and tiny new plants will emerge from the leaf base over several weeks; the “mother” leaf will eventually shrivel.
Pruning Your Coin Tree
Pruning jade plants maintains shape, promotes bushier growth, and contributes to overall health. It also controls size or removes leggy growth caused by insufficient light. The best time for significant pruning is spring, during the plant’s active growth.
Use clean, sharp scissors or secateurs for precise cuts. Pinch back soft new growth to encourage branching, or for substantial shaping, cut just above a leaf node or a brown ring on the stem. New stems grow from nodes below the cut, leading to a denser plant. Removing damaged, inward-growing, or crisscrossing branches also benefits the plant’s structure and air circulation.
Common Coin Tree Problems
Jade plants are resilient, but issues can arise from improper care. Leaf drop can result from overwatering, underwatering, or sudden temperature changes. Overwatered plants may exhibit mushy or yellowing leaves; underwatered plants often have shriveled or wrinkled foliage. Adjusting watering based on soil dryness is important for recovery.
Stretched stems with wide gaps between leaves indicate insufficient light, a condition known as etiolation. Moving the plant to a brighter location corrects this. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, or scale can infest jade plants. These can be removed by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by using neem oil. Consistent observation helps early detection and resolution.