While the names are often used as if they refer to the same thing, the term Jade Plant refers specifically to one species within a much larger botanical grouping. The genus Crassula encompasses hundreds of different plants, all sharing some general characteristics as succulents. Therefore, every true Jade Plant is a Crassula, but not every Crassula is a Jade Plant.
Genus, Species, and the Common Name
The distinction between the two terms lies in the taxonomic hierarchy. Crassula is the name of a genus, a broad category of plants belonging to the family Crassulaceae, which is known for its thick, fleshy foliage. This genus includes approximately 200 to over 300 accepted species, many of which are native to South Africa. The Latin root of the name Crassula means “thick” or “fat,” referencing the water-storing nature of these succulents.
The plant commonly known as the Jade Plant is scientifically identified by its specific binomial name, Crassula ovata. This two-part name is the standard for species identification, with Crassula being the genus and ovata being the species epithet. The species name ovata means “egg-shaped,” which describes the characteristic leaf form. Using this precise nomenclature helps avoid the ambiguity that comes with common names like “Money Plant” or “Friendship Plant.”
Diversity Within the Crassula Family
The Crassula genus exhibits remarkable variation in appearance, demonstrating that the name is not interchangeable with the typical Jade Plant look. These plants have evolved a wide range of forms to adapt to various arid and semi-arid habitats, primarily in southern Africa. The morphological differences within the genus are significant, ranging from tiny, ground-hugging rosettes to large shrubs.
Many Crassula species look vastly different from Crassula ovata’s miniature tree structure. For instance, Crassula perforata, often called String of Buttons, features leaves that are tightly stacked along a stem, creating a square shape. Another example is Crassula muscosa, known as Watch Chain, which has tiny, scale-like leaves closely packed onto thin, trailing stems.
Distinctive Features of Crassula ovata
The common Jade Plant, Crassula ovata, develops a thick, woody stem over time, giving it a miniature, tree-like or bonsai-like appearance. This robust structure helps the plant grow into a sizable shrub, sometimes reaching heights of three to six feet indoors.
Its leaves are the source of its common name, being thick, fleshy, and oval-shaped, resembling jade stones. These glossy, evergreen leaves typically grow up to two inches long and are a deep, rich green color. When exposed to sufficient sunlight, the edges of the leaves often develop a noticeable reddish tint, a sign of a healthy, well-lit plant. Mature plants may also produce small clusters of white or pink, star-shaped flowers during the winter months.