Plants

Jade plant care: light, water & problems

Scientific name: Crassula ovata · Common name: Jade plant

A succulent shrub with fleshy oval leaves on stems that become woody.

Editorial revision: 2026-10-01

Care at a glance

Light: It needs plenty of light; acclimatise leaves gradually to direct sun.
Watering: Water thoroughly, then let the mix dry before the next watering, especially in winter.

A succulent shrub with fleshy oval leaves on stems that become woody.

It needs plenty of light; acclimatise leaves gradually to direct sun.

Water thoroughly, then let the mix dry before the next watering, especially in winter.

Conditions vary with pot, season and location. Always check the mix and your plant's response.

Use a pot with drainage and protect it from cold, wet conditions.

Prioritise a very free-draining mix and a pot with holes. Heavy mix that remains wet for weeks raises root risk.

Feed sparingly during active growth if needed; do not fertilise a plant weakened by overwatering.

Soft leaves with wet mix call for a root check; wrinkles with dry mix call for a different check.

Review light, temperature and mix moisture changes before assuming it needs more water.