Crassula ovata (Mill.) Druce
Vernacular name: Jade plant, Lucky plant, Money plant, Crassula (Hindi: जेड पौधा)
Species Name: Crassula ovata (Mill.) Druce
Family: Crassulaceae
Habit: Succulent, much-branched evergreen shrub or subshrub.
Stem: Thick, fleshy, woody with age; branches stout and grey-brown.
Leaf: Opposite, decussate, obovate, thick and succulent, entire, glossy green, often reddish along margins.
Flowering: Winter–spring.
Flowers: Terminal cymose clusters; small, star-shaped, white to pale pink, 5-merous; stamens 5, carpels 5.
Fruit: Small follicular fruits, usually inconspicuous.
Uses:
- South African indigenous traditions uses the topical application of crushed leaf sap to soothe burns, insect bites, heal minor cuts and treat skin warts.
- Consumption of plant is dangerous and can be toxic to humans and animals.
- Widely cultivated as an ornamental succulent and houseplant; it is also associated with social and cultural uses.
- It’s a popular choice for making bonsai.
- Jade plants absorbs carbon dioxides at night due to CAM pathway of photosynthesis, making a popular indoor plant.
- Coin shaped leaves are seen as symbol of wealth, positive energy and prosperity in many cultures.
