Folio № 15 of 36
Dwarf Jade
Portulacaria afra
A succulent species ideal for beginners, with compact foliage, forgiving structure, and vigorous growth under warm conditions.
The year, as this species lives it
Thirteen phases. Touch any arc — the wheel remembers what each season asks.
Early Fall · Sep 1 – Sep 30 · happening now
- Gradually reduce frequency as light and temps drop. Avoid watering if temps fall below 55°F.
- Cease feeding by end of month.
- Minimal—focus on cleanup only. Complete final shaping by mid-September to avoid disrupting energy hardening.
- Pause major training work.
click another arc to travel the year →
The care sheet
The constants — what stays true in every season.
Full sun to partial shade
Thrives in bright light; protect from intense midday sun in hot, dry climates.
Low
Allow soil to dry between waterings; overwatering is a common issue.
Low-nitrogen
Feed lightly with balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer; reduce during dormancy.
Any time during active growth
Backbuds freely; prune regularly to maintain shape and compact internodes.
Spring to early summer
Use caution—branches snap easily; clip-and-grow is often preferred.
Every 2–4 years
Repot in warm weather; avoid watering for a few days after repotting to prevent root rot.
Cuttings
Extremely easy from cuttings; allow to callous before planting.
Keep above 40°F (5°C); susceptible to frost damage—bring indoors if needed.
Very drought-tolerant; reduce watering during heatwaves to prevent leggy growth.