Crassula ovata 'Undulatifolia', commonly known as Ripple Jade, is an appealing cultivar of the popular jade plant, distinguished by its gracefully wavy and undulating leaves. This succulent shrub offers a delightful textural variation to the classic jade plant, maintaining its easy-care nature while adding a touch of elegant movement to indoor and outdoor succulent collections.
 
Key Features of Crassula ovata 'Undulatifolia' (Ripple Jade)
Wavy Leaves: The most distinctive feature is its fleshy, oval leaves that exhibit attractive ripples and curves along their margins, giving it the "ripple" moniker.
Leaf Color: Typically features a rich green leaf color, which can develop reddish or purplish tinges along the edges when exposed to cooler temperatures or bright sunlight.
Growth Habit: Grows as a branching succulent shrub with a sturdy stem structure, capable of reaching a moderate size over time.
Compact Form: Generally maintains a relatively compact and upright growth habit, making it suitable for various container sizes.
Occasional Flowers: Mature plants may produce clusters of small, star-shaped white or pale pink flowers, usually in late winter or early spring, though flowering can be somewhat infrequent.
 
Care for Your Ripple Jade
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct morning sun. Insufficient light can lead to stretched growth and dull coloration.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus and succulent potting mix is ideal.
Watering: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry to the touch. Overwatering is a common issue with jade plants. 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.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Plant
Pruning: Can be pruned to maintain a desired shape and size or to encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done in spring or early summer.
Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant has outgrown its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger with good drainage.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests like mealybugs and scale insects. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Cleaning Leaves: Gently wipe the leaves occasionally to remove dust and allow for better light absorption.
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 Ripple Jade
Stem Cuttings: The easiest and most common method. Take a healthy stem cutting a few inches long, allow the cut end to callus over for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Leaf Cuttings: While possible, leaf propagation can be slower. Allow a healthy leaf to callus over for a few days and then place it on top of well-draining soil. New roots and plantlets may eventually emerge.
Division: Mature, multi-stemmed plants can sometimes be carefully divided at the root ball during repotting.
 
Crassula ovata 'Undulatifolia' (Ripple Jade) offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, providing the same ease of care with an added element of visual interest through its gracefully rippled foliage. Its adaptability and relatively low maintenance requirements make it a rewarding succulent for both beginners and experienced plant enthusiasts alike.
 
 
* 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.