Types of Trailing Jade Varieties: The Complete Guide

Trailing jade plants are more than just any other houseplant; they're a beautiful way to add life and greenery to your home. With their delicate, cascading stems and vibrant leaves, these plants are sure to catch the eye of anyone who walks into the room.

This article will cover the different types of trailing jade varieties, offer tips on how to care for them, and discuss how you can incorporate them into your home decor. Whether you're a seasoned plant parent or just starting your plant journey, there's something here for everyone.

Understanding Trailing Jade

Before diving into the specific varieties, let's get familiar with what makes trailing jades unique. These plants belong to the Crassula genus, a group known for its succulent properties. This means they're naturally adept at storing water, making them relatively easy to care for once you get the hang of it.

Trailing jade varieties are characterized by their growth habit. Unlike the upright jade plants that many are familiar with, these varieties grow in a trailing or cascading manner. This quality makes them perfect for hanging planters or ledges where their stems can elegantly drape down.

They thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to be watered sparingly, allowing their soil to dry out completely between waterings. These plants are great for those who might not have a green thumb yet but still want to dive into the world of plant care.

Popular Trailing Jade Varieties

Crassula Pellucida 'Variegata'

This variety is a showstopper with its multi-colored leaves. Known for its pink and cream variegation, the Crassula Pellucida 'Variegata' can add a splash of color to any room. The leaves are typically small, round, and grow closely together along the stems, creating a lush appearance.

Caring for this plant involves giving it plenty of bright, indirect light to maintain its beautiful colors. Like all succulents, it needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A cactus mix or a combination of potting soil and perlite works well. Water only when the soil is completely dry, usually every couple of weeks.

Crassula Marginalis Rubra 'Calico Kitten'

The 'Calico Kitten' is a charming trailing jade with heart-shaped leaves that boast a mix of pink, green, and cream. This plant is perfect for adding a bit of whimsy to your space.

It thrives in bright light, which helps the leaves maintain their vibrant colors. If the light is too low, the colors may fade, and the plant can become leggy. As with other succulents, overwatering can be a concern, so ensure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry completely between waterings.

Interestingly enough, the 'Calico Kitten' is known to be quite forgiving. If you accidentally forget a watering session or two, it will bounce back once hydrated. Just be careful not to make a habit of it!

Unique Trailing Jade Varieties

Crassula Ovata 'Gollum'

This variety is sometimes called the 'Hobbit Jade' due to its unique tubular leaves that resemble fingers. The Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' is a quirky addition to any plant collection and is sure to be a conversation starter.

Caring for the 'Gollum' involves the usual jade plant care routine: bright, indirect light and minimal watering. The key here is to ensure the soil is very well-draining, as the tubular leaves can hold a lot of water.

One thing to note about the 'Gollum' is that it can become top-heavy as it grows. Consider using a heavier pot to prevent it from tipping over, especially as the stems begin to trail and hang down.

Crassula Rupestris 'Baby's Necklace'

The 'Baby's Necklace' is a fascinating trailing jade with small, round leaves that grow tightly along the stems, resembling a string of beads. The leaves often feature a hint of red or pink along the edges, especially when exposed to ample sunlight.

This plant prefers a bit more sunlight than some other varieties, so a spot near a bright window is ideal. However, it can tolerate some direct sun, which can help bring out its colorful edges. Like its jade relatives, it needs well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly.

Incorporating the 'Baby's Necklace' into your home decor is easy. Its unique growth pattern makes it perfect for hanging baskets or as an accent plant on a high shelf.

Less Common Trailing Jade Varieties

Crassula Marnieriana 'Jade Necklace'

Often confused with the 'Baby's Necklace', the 'Jade Necklace' has similar bead-like leaves but grows in a more compact manner. The leaves are thicker and more closely packed, giving it a distinct appearance.

While it shares care requirements with other jade varieties, the 'Jade Necklace' prefers a bit more humidity, making it a good candidate for a bathroom or kitchen with bright light. If humidity is low, consider occasionally misting the plant or placing it on a pebble tray.

This plant can become a focal point in any room, especially when displayed in a decorative pot or container. Its unique appearance is sure to draw attention and admiration from visitors.

Crassula Perforata 'String of Buttons'

The 'String of Buttons' is aptly named for its button-like leaves that stack along the stems. This plant has a more upright growth habit initially but will begin to trail as it matures, providing a lovely cascading effect.

It thrives in bright light and well-draining soil, much like its jade relatives. The leaves can develop red edges when exposed to sufficient sunlight, adding to its visual appeal. Water sparingly, ensuring the soil dries out completely before watering again.

The 'String of Buttons' is perfect for those who want a plant with a bit of height and trailing features. Its unique growth pattern makes it ideal for a windowsill or a sunny corner where it can capture attention.

Caring for Trailing Jade Varieties

Now that we've explored some of the fascinating trailing jade varieties, let's talk about how to care for them. While each variety has its quirks, there are some general care tips that apply to all.

Lighting and Placement

Most trailing jades prefer bright, indirect light. A south-facing window is often a good choice. However, they can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the sun is less intense. Too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light can cause them to become leggy.

Consider the placement of your trailing jade carefully. Hanging baskets or high shelves are perfect for showcasing their trailing nature. Just make sure they're within reach for watering!

Watering and Soil

Succulents, including trailing jades, are prone to overwatering. It's better to underwater than overwater these plants. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Depending on the climate and season, this could mean watering every two to three weeks.

Well-draining soil is essential. A mix designed for succulents or cacti works well, or you can create your own by mixing potting soil with perlite or sand. This helps prevent root rot by ensuring excess water drains away from the roots.

Using Trailing Jades in Interior Design

Trailing jades are not just plants; they're a design element that can transform the ambiance of your home. Their cascading nature makes them ideal for adding greenery to spaces without taking up floor space.

Hanging Planters

One of the best ways to display trailing jades is in hanging planters. This allows them to grow freely and cascade downward, creating a stunning visual effect. Opt for decorative hangers or macramé to add an extra touch of style.

Shelves and Ledges

If hanging planters aren't an option, consider placing your trailing jade on a shelf or ledge. This not only showcases the plant but also adds depth and interest to your decor. Mix and match with other plants or decorative items for a personalized look.

Trailing jades can also be incorporated into vertical gardens or plant walls, offering a lush, natural backdrop to any room.

Dealing with Common Pests and Problems

Even the best plant parents face challenges, and trailing jades are no exception. While they're generally hardy, a few pests and issues can crop up from time to time.

Common Pests

Mealybugs and aphids are the usual suspects when it comes to jade plant pests. These tiny insects can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or by using insecticidal soap.

Fungal Issues

Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common issue with succulents. If you notice mushy stems or a foul smell, it's time to check the roots. Remove any affected areas and repot the plant in fresh, dry soil.

Leaf Discoloration

Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering, while shriveled leaves may mean the plant is too dry. Adjust your watering schedule accordingly and ensure the plant is receiving adequate light.

Finding the Right Trailing Jade for Your Home

With so many trailing jade varieties to choose from, finding the perfect one for your space can be exciting. Consider your home's lighting conditions, your ability to care for the plant, and the aesthetic you want to achieve.

Do you want a pop of color? Go for the 'Calico Kitten' or 'Variegata'. Looking for something unique? The 'Gollum' or 'String of Buttons' might be just what you're after. Whatever you choose, a trailing jade is sure to bring joy and a touch of nature into your home.

Final Thoughts

Trailing jade varieties offer a world of possibilities for plant lovers looking to add a bit of greenery to their homes. With their easy care requirements and stunning appearance, they're a wonderful choice for both beginners and experienced plant parents.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you find the perfect plants for your space. Whether you're browsing our selection of unique varieties or need advice on plant care, we're here to help. Feel free to email us or send us a message on Instagram. We believe that plants have the power to connect us to nature and each other, and we can't wait to share our love of plants with you.