Crassula arborescens, also called Silver Dollar Jade, Rippled Jade, or Blue Waves, is a stunning South African succulent prized for its silvery-blue, coin-shaped leaves and fuss-free care.
This plant adds visual interest to rock gardens, containers, and indoor collections, making it a versatile choice for both beginner and experienced succulent growers .
Quick Facts Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Silver Dollar Jade, Rippled Jade, Blue Waves |
| Botanical Name | Crassula arborescens |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Native Range | South Africa |
| Height | Up to 1.2 m (4 ft) |
| Foliage | Rounded, thick blue-green leaves, often edged in red |
| Flowers | White to pink, star-shaped; late winter to spring |
| Growth Habit | Slow-growing, shrubby and bushy |
| Uses | Indoor succulent, container, succulent garden border |
Plant Identification & Varieties
- Crassula arborescens is sometimes confused with Crassula ovata (“Money Tree”), but distinguishable by its broader, silvery leaves and taller, bushier stature .
- Notable varieties include:
- ‘Blue Waves’ – Becomes extra wavy and blue-tinged under bright sunlight .
- subsp. undulatifolia (‘Rippled Jade’) – Features undulating or curled foliage for dramatic texture .
- ‘Silver Dollar Jade’ – Named for the flat, rounded leaf shape .
How to Grow Crassula arborescens – Basic Care and cultivation
We find that the best way to grow Crassula arborescens well is in a pot or container in a sunny position, a well drained soil (let the soil dry out between watering). Plants can be pruned back to keep in shape and new plants are easily propagated from cuttings and seeds.
Growing Conditions
- Light: Full sun to bright indirect light; indoors, choose a sunny window .
- Water: Deeply when dry, letting soil dry out between watering to prevent root rot .
- Soil: Use gritty, well-drained mix (cactus/succulent blend with 30–40% perlite).
- Temperature: Prefers 18–26°C; protect from frost.
- Fertiliser: Half-strength cactus fertiliser in active spring and summer growth.
Seasonal Care Tips
- Summer: Water regularly but deeply; shield from intense afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch .
- Winter: Water sparingly (plant semi-dormant); keep above 10°C and avoid chilling drafts .
- Pruning: Trim stray or leggy branches after flowering to maintain compact shape .
Propagation Methods
- Stem Cuttings:
- Take a healthy stem (8–12 cm long), let it dry for 5–10 days until callused .
- Insert into moist, well-drained mix; keep in light shade until new growth appears .
- Seeds:
- Sow on moist succulent soil in spring; cover lightly and keep warm .
- Leaf yellowing: Overwatering; allow longer drying between waterings .
- Wrinkled leaves: Drought stress; check for root health and water thoroughly .
Crassula arborescens vs. Crassula ovata
| Trait | Crassula arborescens | Crassula ovata |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf color & texture | Silvery blue, round, thick | Green, oval, glossy |
| Height | Up to 1.2 m, bushy habit | Up to 1 m, tree-like |
| Flower | Small, pink-white, star-shaped | White or pink, star-shaped |
| Native Range | South Africa | South Africa |
What Is Crassula arborescens?
Crassula arborescens is a larger species of the Crassula genus, which includes many well-known succulents. It’s often confused with Crassula ovata (the traditional “Money Tree”), but arborescens has broader, more silvery-blue leaves and a more shrub-like appearance.
Key Characteristics:
- Foliage: Thick, rounded leaves with a bluish tint and red margins.
- Height: Can grow up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) tall when mature.
- Flowers: Small, star-shaped white to pink flowers in late winter or spring.
- Growth Habit: Slow-growing, bushy shrub.
Should I fertilize Silver Dollar Jade in winter?
No, fertilize only in the active growth period (spring and summer); avoid feeding in winter .
How do I prevent root rot in Rippled Jade?
Use fast-draining soil and only water when the soil feels dry at least 4–5 cm deep .
Is Crassula arborescens a good beginner succulent?
Yes, it tolerates drying out and low maintenance, making it easy care .
Where To Buy
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
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