Looks like a Jade Plant, but has fuzzy leaves

by Debra
(Charlottesville, VA)

This doesn't appear to be any kind of parasite, but rather the natural texture of the leaves. It has the same shaped leaves and general characteristics of a Jade Plant, only the leaves are fuzzy.

I am not sure of the proper care of the plant (I was told it likes the outdoors and fresh air during the summer), and don't want to kill it out of ignorance. My smooth leafed Jade seems quite happy with 'benign neglect', that is watering it lightly about once a week or 10 days, and has more than tripled in size - baby plants appear underneath on a regular basis. Do I care for the fuzzy leafed one the same way? Or is it not a Jade Plant at all? If not, what is it?


Drought Smart Plants reply:

Hi Debra, this looks like some type of Echeveria or other succulent plant (sorry, nothing's leaping out at me for identification), which requires the same kind of care as your Crassula (Jade Plant).

The hairy appearance is typical of some succulents as it is a common drought smart strategy.

Have a look at how to grow Echeveria and succulent care pages.

From the pictures, I wonder if it's getting enough light - the stems seem rather long as though they're stretching to get more light. This is a very important requirement for succulents of all kinds, so a bright window (east or south is best) and as you've already heard, outside in a bright place for the summer.

You should have good success with propagating this succulent, with the added benefit that it will cause more bushier growth to start from below where you cut off pieces to root as cuttings.

Jacki

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