Beliefs and symbolism surrounding the Jade tree

How curious the jade plant is! It's highly valued not only for its beauty and ease of care, but also for the beliefs and symbolism surrounding it in various cultures. It's considered a protective plant that attracts good luck and prosperity, and promotes harmony and balance in its surroundings. Scientifically proven? No, but how many beliefs have endured for centuries, and yet...

Yes, the jade plant, Crassula ovata, has a number of associated beliefs in various cultures, especially in the practice of feng shui and in Chinese tradition. Here are a few:

1. Symbol of prosperity and good fortune: In Chinese tradition, the jade plant is considered a symbol of prosperity, good fortune, and business success. It is believed that having this plant in the home or workplace attracts positive energy and abundance.
2. Protection and harmony: The jade tree is believed to have protective properties and can help protect the home from bad luck and negative energies. It is also associated with harmony and peace in the home.
3. Longevity and personal growth: Due to its long lifespan and ability to regenerate easily, the jade plant is also associated with longevity and personal growth. It is believed that having this plant nearby can foster personal and spiritual development.
4. A symbol of friendship and love: In some cultures, the jade plant is considered a gift of friendship and love. Giving this plant to a loved one is believed to strengthen emotional bonds and bring happiness and joy to the relationship.

• The jade plant is a succulent plant that grows in the form of a shrub or small tree, with thick, fleshy stems and succulent, glossy leaves.
• The leaves are oval and arranged oppositely on the stems, with smooth edges and a characteristic dark green color. Some varieties may have variegated leaves with shades of white or cream.
• Under optimal conditions, the jade tree can reach heights of up to 2 meters, although it is generally kept smaller when grown in pots.

Basic care:

• Light: The jade tree prefers full sun for optimal growth, although it can also tolerate some partial shade in very hot climates.
• Soil: It needs well-drained, porous soil to avoid waterlogging, as the roots can easily rot if kept too wet.
• Watering: Water your jade plant moderately and infrequently. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering, especially in winter when the plant is dormant.
• Temperature: It prefers warm temperatures and does not tolerate frost. Protect the plant from extremely cold temperatures, as these can damage its leaves and stems.
• Pruning: Pruning is minimal for the jade plant. You can trim the stems to shape the plant if necessary, and remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep it healthy and attractive.

Interesting facts:

• The jade plant is a long-lived plant that can live for decades with proper care. It is known for its hardiness and durability.
• Under favorable conditions, the jade tree can produce small white or pink star-shaped flowers on the upper stems, although this is less common in plants grown indoors.
• The leaves of the jade plant may fall off if the plant suffers stress from lack of water, change of location or unfavorable environmental conditions, but they can usually grow back if the care conditions are improved.