Crassula ovata 'Minima' is a charming miniature cultivar of the popular jade plant, prized for its small, tightly packed, oval-shaped leaves and compact growth habit. This delightful succulent offers all the resilience and ease of care of its larger relative in a petite and manageable form, making it an ideal choice for small spaces, dish gardens, and as an attractive windowsill companion.
 
Key Features of Crassula ovata 'Minima'
Miniature Size: As its name suggests, 'Minima' is significantly smaller than the standard jade plant, typically reaching only a few inches in height.
Small, Oval Leaves: Features tiny, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves that are densely arranged along the stems.
Compact Growth Habit: Exhibits a tight and bushy growth pattern, forming a miniature tree-like structure over time.
Green Foliage: The leaves are typically a rich, glossy green, though they can develop reddish edges when exposed to more sunlight or cooler temperatures.
Occasional Flowering: Mature plants may occasionally produce clusters of small, star-shaped white or pink flowers, usually in late winter or early spring.
 
Care for Your Crassula ovata 'Minima'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sun can scorch the delicate leaves. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and a loss of compact form.
Soil: Requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent mix is suitable.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common cause of problems. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant winter months.
Temperature: Prefers moderate temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts well to average indoor humidity levels. Good air circulation is beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Pruning: Minimal pruning is usually required, mainly to maintain shape or remove any dead or leggy growth. Pruning can encourage bushier growth.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage. Spring or early summer is the best time for repotting.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as mealybugs and scale insects, which can sometimes infest the dense foliage. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Fertilize sparingly during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer formulated for succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: A straightforward method. Take small stem cuttings with a few leaves, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower. Select healthy, plump leaves, allow the cut end to callus, and place them on top of well-draining soil. New plantlets may eventually emerge.
 
Crassula ovata 'Minima' is a delightful and easy-to-care-for succulent that offers the classic appeal of a jade plant in a charmingly small package. Its compact size and attractive miniature foliage make it a versatile addition to any indoor succulent collection, bringing a touch of greenery to even the smallest of spaces.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.