Jade Plant (Crassula Ovata) and Elephant Bush (Portulacaria Afra) are two popular succulent plants known for their low-maintenance and air-purifying properties. They are also often used in feng shui for good luck and prosperity. Both plants can thrive indoors, making them popular choices for houseplants. In this article, we will take a closer look at the similarities and differences between these two plants, and ultimately help you determine which one is the perfect fit for your home.
Jade Plant vs Elephant Bush
Jade Plant, also known as the “money plant” or “money tree”, is a small, slow-growing succulent that originates from South Africa. The leaves are thick and plump, and they are a bright jade green color. The plant also produces small, pink or white flowers in the late winter or early spring. Jade Plant is considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity, and is often grown in homes and offices as a decorative plant.
Elephant Bush Plant, also known as “Dwarf Jade” is a slow-growing, evergreen succulent native to South Africa. The leaves are small, round and thick and green in color. The plant produces small, insignificant flowers in the summer. Elephant Bush is a hardy plant that is often grown as a bonsai or as a hedge in warm climates.
Here are some of the differences and similarities between the two plants:
Differences between Jade Plant and Elephant Bush
- Leaves: The jade plant has thick, plump (Balloon Shape) leaves that are a bright jade green color and reaching up to 6 feet tall. The elephant bush has small, round (Heart Shape) leaves that are a darker green, growing up to 3 feet tall.
- Flower: The jade plant produces small, pink or white flowers in the late winter or early spring, while the elephant bush produces small, insignificant flowers in the summer.
- Growth: The jade plant is often grown as a decorative plant, while the elephant bush is often grown as a bonsai or as a hedge in warm climates.
- Sun Light: Elephant bush is able to tolerate a lot of sun, and even thrive on it, while Jade Plant is more tolerant to low light and can even thrive on it.
- Jade Plant is a bit more fragile then Elephant bush.
Similarities between Jade Plant and Elephant Bush
- Both are succulents and have thick, fleshy leaves that store water.
- Both are native to South Africa and are drought-tolerant plants.
- Both are slow-growing plants.
- Both can be grown indoors or outdoors, although the Elephant bush is known to be more hardy.
- Propagation methods of Elephant Bush Plant and Jade Plant are same, can be propagate through stem cutting or by air layering
Which One is the Perfect Fit for Your Home?
Both the Jade Plant and Elephant Bush make great houseplants and can thrive indoors. The decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and the look you want to achieve in your home. If you’re looking for a larger, more substantial plant, the Jade Plant may be the perfect choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something smaller and more delicate, the Elephant Bush may be a better fit.
In conclusion, both jade plant and elephant bush are great low maintenance and Air purifying houseplants, which are said to bring good luck and prosperity, ultimately which one to choose depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve in your home.
FAQs
Q1: How often should I water my jade plant?
You should allow the soil to dry out completely before watering your jade plant again. This is typically once every 1-2 weeks, but can vary depending on factors such as humidity and the size of the pot.
Q2: How much sunlight does an elephant bush need?
Elephant bush can tolerate a lot of sun, and even thrive on it. A bright, sunny location is ideal for this plant.
Q3: How do I propagate my jade plant?
You can propagate a jade plant by taking stem cuttings or leaves. Simply take a cutting or leaf and place it in well-draining soil, keeping it slightly moist and out of direct sunlight until roots have formed. Then care for it as you would a mature jade plant.
