2023 How Many Varieties Of Ice Plant Jade Are There: Expert Tell You

The Origin and Characteristics of Ice PlantJade

Ice plant jade, also known as stonecrop jade , is a succulent that naturally develops an attractive stone-like http://appearance.It|appearance.It originated in South Africa and is well adapted for hot arid climates. The plant produces spikes of small pale-to-dark green leaves with cylindrical stems that resemble jade.
More comprehensive information and care guidelines can be read here.

ice plant jade, crassula ovata, a close up of a plant — *Photo by* *Kostiantyn Vierkieiev* / *Unsplash*

Exploring the Different Varieties of Ice Plant Jade

Ice plant jade comes in several varieties that differ in size, color, leaf shape, and pattern. At least eight varieties of ice plant jade are commonly grown as ornamental plants.

The ‘Silver Frost’ variety has gray-green leaves with a frosted white appearance due to a dense coating of farina on the surface. The leaves are needle-like and semi-erect. This variety forms a dense, spreading mat that is ideal for groundcover.

‘Ruby Slippers’ ice plant jade has light green leaves edged in red. The leaves are triangular in shape and form loose rosettes. This variety grows more upright than others and reaches 12-15 inches tall.

‘Century Plant’ is a dwarf compact variety with blue-green leaves that are mottled with dark markings. The leaves are triangular and distinctly wedge-shaped. This variety only grows 6-8 inches tall, making it suitable for rock gardens and containers.

Other popular varieties include:

‘Apricot Surprise’ with apricot-colored leaves
‘Key Lime Pie’ with yellow variegated leaves
‘Lemon Dream’ with yellow leaves
‘Old Gold’ with gold leaves

All varieties of ice plant jade share similar care requirements and tolerate drought, heat and neglect once established. They thrive in dry, well-drained soil and full sun. Irregular watering during the growing season is sufficient to keep these succulents healthy.

Crassulaceae | Stonecrop family
: The botanical family that comprises ice plant and many other succulent plants.

ice plant jade, ice plant jade, a stone building with a tower in the middle of a snowy forest — *Photo by* *World of Magic* / *Unsplash*

Cultivating Ice Plant Jade: Tips and Techniques

Ice plant jade thrives in sunny, dry conditions with well-drained soil. Successful cultivation requires infrequent watering and minimal care.

Watering: Ice plant jade is drought tolerant and should only be watered when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry. Overwatering can cause root rot and kill the plant. During the growing season, water every 1-2 weeks, especially if grown in containers. Reduce watering to once a month or less in winter.

Soil: Ice plant jade prefers fast-draining soil that allows excess water to evaporate quickly. Soils that are sandy, gravelly or contain organic matter like compost work well. Provide adequate drainage by growing in raised beds, mounds or containers with drainage holes.

Sunlight: Full sun is ideal to bring out the bright colors and compact growth form of ice plant jade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant may stretch and lose color if grown in insufficient light.

Fertilizer: Fertilizer is generally not needed for ice plant jade due to its slow growth rate. Only apply organic or slow-release fertilizer in early spring at half the recommended strength on the label.

Pruning: Regular pruning helps shape the plant and remove dead or damaged leaves. Prune off long, leggy stems to encourage thicker growth. Cut stems back to the ground in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

Containers: Ice plant jade can be grown in containers with well-draining soil. Water containers more frequently during the growing season, every 5-7 days. Only water when the top few inches of soil is dry. Place containers in full sun and provide adequate spacing.

In summary, ice plant jade thrives with minimal care in dry, sunny conditions with well-drained soil and infrequent watering.The plant’s durability and tolerance for neglect make it a low-maintenance choice for beginner gardeners.

ice plant jade, succulent plants, potted green aloe vera — *Photo by* *Christin Hume* / *Unsplash*

Benefits of Ice Plant Jade: Aesthetic and Therapeutic Qualities

Ice plant jade provides numerous benefits due to its aesthetic appeal and potential therapeutic qualities. The plant’s sculptural gray-green forms make it an attractive choice for groundcover and low borders. Its slow growth, drought tolerance and ability to thrive with minimal care also make it suitable for gardeners of all experience levels.

Ice plant jade’s potential therapeutic properties are derived from its saponin content. Saponins are plant compounds known for:

Reducing inflammation
Boosting the immune system
Fighting bacteria and fungi

Studies have found that applying ice plant extracts topically can help treat various skin conditions such as:

Eczema
Psoriasis
Acne

The exact antibacterial and anti-inflammatory mechanisms remain largely unknown but researchers believe that saponins disrupt microbial cell membranes.

In summary, ice plant jade offers both functional benefits through its low-maintenance growth habit as well as potential therapeutic benefits through its saponin content, making it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.