CRASSULA ovata

Undoubtedly one of the most cultivated and loved representatives of the Crassula genus, so much so that it has been given the common name of "jade tree", because the color of its leaves recalls that of the famous stone; in the oriental culture it is also recognized as having the ability to attract economic prosperity. Perennial and evergreen succulent, shrub-like habit and medium growth rate, of South African origin: in a few years it can reach and exceed 1.50 meters in height and slightly less in width. Already branched from the base, it has swollen, erect stems covered with a clear bark on which fleshy, ovoid leaves of a beautiful bright green are inserted, shiny and arranged in an opposite and orthogonal way. From late autumn and throughout the winter, the various branches are crowned with numerous inflorescences made up of small pink-white starry flowers.

For an optimal growth of the plant it is only necessary to guarantee it a sunny position and a poor, sandy and well-drained soil. saltiness of the sea winds does not affect its beauty as well as particularly dry seasons: where instead the winters are characterized by intense and prolonged cold, lplace it in a sheltered position or under a protection or shelter in a cool and bright environment. In late spring we can intervene on our plant and, by observing it carefully, remove dry, broken, damaged or cluttered parts or that alter its harmonious development. An interesting choice for terraces and balconies or even for interiors, as long as they are very bright, where even medium-sized vases and containers can be adopted, in the open ground it accompanies cacti and succulents of various kinds, solving corners of the garden in an elegant, easy way maintenance and perfect in every season of the year.