Jade Plant Types

Jade plants (Crassula spp.) are succulents native to parts of Africa. Desirable for their ease of care and distinctive, thick leaves, they are often called "money tree" plants and given as gifts. Jade plants thrive in the warm, dry conditions of most homes and are popularly grown as houseplants, according to Clemson University. Most types are slow-growing but can get quite large in their containers. Although jade plants flower occasionally, most of these cultivars are grown for their foliage, not their flowers.

"Lutea" (Crassula argentea)

"Lutea" is an unusual, rare type of jade plant. This variety features leaves shaped like cones, with a wider opening at one end that causes each leaf to somewhat resemble a spoon. Not only is this cultivar quite distinctive, but it is also one of the hardiest of all the jade plants. "Lutea" will thrive even if neglected, according to Cornell University.

"California Red Tip" (Crassula ovata)

Crassula ovata is the most common type of jade plant grown by home gardeners. "California Red Tip" is one type of C. ovata that is desirable for its showy leaves. This jade plant loves the full sun and will develop purple margins around the bright green, glossy leaves if given enough light. This plant has white, star-shaped flowers that appear in the spring.

"Blue Bird" (Crassula arborescens)

"Blue Bird" is a type of C. arborescens. This variety, also called "Silver Jade," has bluish-gray leaves with striking red borders. The colors are brighter if placed in a location where it will receive full sunlight. "Blue Bird" flowers with small, mounded groups of tiny pink blooms.

"Tricolor" (Crassula ovata)

"Tricolor" is another type of C. ovata. Sometimes simply called a "jade tree," this variety has flowers that are white with pink centers. The pointed leaves are also striped in cream and pink, making this plant a striking choice for the home gardener who wants a jade plant that strays from the traditional green color.

"Bronze Beauty" (Crassula ovata)

"Bronze Beauty" is the slowest-growing of all jade plants, according to Clemson University. Still, it is popular with home gardeners who want to cultivate a bonsai shape in their jade plant. The leaves of this jade plant are delicate, round, and copper-colored.