The Crassula marnieriana, with its eye-catching structural eccentricity, stands out among any plant collection. Known by various names like the worm plant, Chinese jade, jade necklace vine, and baby necklace, this succulent is a true marvel. What’s more, it thrives even in colder climates and can withstand light freezes. With over 200 species in the Crassula genus, Crassula marnieriana is particularly unique, boasting vertical stacked thick leaves adorned with blushed pink edges. Read on to discover tips on cultivating the jade necklace and experience the architectural beauty reminiscent of Dr. Seuss.
Key Takeaways
Insights into the Jade Necklace Vine
Succulent enthusiasts are no strangers to the diverse Crassula family. These plants are renowned for their peculiar shapes and extraordinary stacked leaves. Crassula worm plants exemplify the fantastical structure of a living necklace, with perfectly arranged leaves stacked one on top of another.
Attempting to describe Crassula worm plants leaves one almost speechless. Smaller specimens boast erect, slender branches adorned with succulent leaves that grow harmoniously stacked on top of one another. Although stems rarely exceed 8 inches (20 cm) in length, longer sections gracefully droop, trail along the ground, or elegantly hang. With green leaves edged in pink or rose, the jade necklace vine is native to South Africa, Lesotho, and Swaziland. The plump, tightly stacked leaves resemble beads on a string, and if you’re fortunate, the plant may produce clusters of tiny starry pinkish blooms.
Cultivating the Jade Necklace
The jade necklace worm plant is not only captivating but also easy to grow, provided it receives ample sunlight and a few other essential conditions. Propagating jade necklace worm plants from cuttings is a simple and rewarding process. Although seeds are available, cultivating the adult form of the plant requires several years. To propagate through cuttings, allow them to callus for a few days to prevent rot. Then, insert the cutting into sand or other soilless media, ensuring it remains moderately moist in a brightly lit area shielded from scorching sun. In just a few weeks, roots should form, and the plant will be ready for the next step.
Once the jade necklace plant is sufficiently established, transplant it into a well-drained pot filled with good cactus or succulent soil. This step is crucial for ensuring the plant’s continued growth and enables you to indulge in the flowers and festively adorned stems it offers.
Nurturing the Jade Necklace Worm Plant
Crassulas prefer sunny locations, but they can scorch if exposed to intense sunlight. Fortunately, the jade necklace is drought-resistant and can tolerate almost any weather except for the coldest conditions, making it an ideal patio plant for most regions. If you anticipate freezing temperatures, be sure to bring your plant indoors for protection.
For optimal growth, use a well-drained mixture of sand or grit combined with peat and vermiculite or perlite as the soil base. Select a pot that effectively evaporates excess moisture, as overly wet roots and stems can be fatal for Crassula plants.
During the summer, deeply water the plant once a week, while in winter, reduce watering to once every three weeks. For added nourishment, use a succulent-specific fertilizer during the growing season to promote overall plant health.
Only consider transplanting the plant when it outgrows its pot. Crassula plants are highly adaptable to crowded conditions and can happily thrive in their containers for many years.
Keep a watchful eye out for mealybugs or scale, and treat the plant promptly with a high-quality horticultural soap as needed. While Crassula plants require good air circulation to prevent mildew, they are among the hardiest and easiest to grow. Add a jade necklace worm plant to your collection for an effortlessly beautiful and captivating addition.
Watch this video to learn more about the Jade Necklace Worm Plant:
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To purchase a jade necklace worm plant, visit the Ames Farm Center.
