Kleinia petraea is a species of flowering plant in the genus Kleinia and family Asteraceae which was previously considered to be a species of Senecio. Native to Kenya and Tanzania, it is colloquially known as creeping jade, trailing jade or weeping jade due to its resemblance to the unrelated Jade plant (Crassula ovata). It is grown as a garden plant as a groundcover or in hanging baskets.
Trailing jade has moderate disease resistance but is more vulnerable to humidity and overwatering. It also becomes more prone to disease when kept in low light and subjected to excess watering. Regarding care, Trailing jade is drought-tolerant and can go long periods without water. It requires little fertilizer and only occasional pruning. For these reasons, it is suitable for people at any experience level, especially those who prefer to spend less time on plant care and who may be away from home for extended periods. It’s a good option for anyone who does not want to invest a lot of time in plant maintenance but still wants an easy-to-care-for plant.
How to keep Senecio Jacobsenii.
Light
Jade trailing is derived from settings with filtered sunlight, like the lower layers of forests or stony regions that naturally offer shade. While it favors semi-sun environments, it is also capable of withstanding exposure to full sun.
Water
Typically, this succulent should be watered twice per week. For best results, check your plant’s soil for moisture before watering it. These plants have low water requirements. They thrive when left to dry out in between waterings.
Temperature
Jade that grows in trails flourishes in hot climates and needs a rise in temperature during its growth phase to boost its development and metabolism. It favors abundant light, suitable humidity, and decent airflow. However, it can be harmed by extremely low temperatures and over-irrigation. It's crucial to maintain equilibrium and refrain from extremely high temperatures and overly parched conditions too.
Fertilizer
For Trailing jade, it's adequate to apply light quantities of fertilizer once or twice a year during the period of growth. The application of fertilizer should be evaded in the winter and summer seasons when the plant is in a dormant state. After repotting, the use of fertilizer should be lessened and one should wait for a few months before applying fertilizer. The act of fertilizing aids in robust growth and stimulates flowering.
Pruning
Damaged, dead, or yellowing leaves should be removed as necessary. Clear any plant debris to encourage better conditions for growing.
Toxicity
This plant is considered toxic to both animals and humans. It is recommended that you keep this succulent out of the reach of small children and curious pets.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 49 cm
- Mature Spread
- 49 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Silver
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Fall
- Native Area
- Kenya, Tanzania
