Pink Jade Plant

Plant Type: perennial, succulent
Plant Height: 2–3 feet (up to 4 feet in ideal conditions)
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: pale pink to white clusters
Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

Pink Jade Plant (Crassula argentea ‘Pinky’): A Blush-Toned Twist on a Classic Favorite

The Pink Jade Plant (Crassula argentea ‘Pinky’), sometimes called the Pinky Jade, is a stunning variation of the classic jade plant prized for its soft, blushing leaf margins and glossy, compact form. Native to South Africa, this slow-growing succulent combines structure and color in perfect balance—its round, fleshy leaves develop warm pink tones under bright light, creating a cheerful and elegant focal point for Arizona gardens or patios.

Unlike traditional jade varieties, the Pink Jade offers a gentler, more ornamental appearance, making it perfect for modern desert landscapes and decorative containers where subtle color and shape matter.

Key Features of Crassula argentea ‘Pinky’

The Pink Jade forms thick, branching stems that support clusters of round, paddle-shaped leaves with a smooth, waxy surface. The foliage is a rich jade green with soft pink edges that intensify in full sun or cooler temperatures. During winter, mature plants produce clusters of small, star-shaped flowers ranging from pale pink to white, which attract bees and butterflies.

Its tidy, rounded shape and moderate growth rate make it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. When grown outdoors in Arizona, it thrives in bright, indirect light or morning sun with light afternoon shade, helping maintain vibrant leaf color without scorch.

Growing and Care Tips

The Pink Jade Plant performs best in bright light and well-drained soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix amended with sand or pumice. It should be protected from intense afternoon sun in the hottest parts of the Arizona Valley, especially during midsummer.

During its first 3–6 months after planting, water every 10–14 days, allowing the soil to dry completely between cycles. Once established, water sparingly—typically every 3–4 weeks in summer and even less in winter. Overwatering can lead to root rot, particularly in heavy or poorly draining soils.

This plant is moderately frost-tolerant down to about 30°F but should be covered or brought indoors during extended cold spells. It prefers stable conditions and can live for decades with proper care.

Occasional pruning helps maintain its rounded shape and can encourage branching. Fertilize lightly once in spring with a diluted succulent fertilizer to promote leaf health and bloom production.

Landscaping Uses

Crassula argentea ‘Pinky’ is an excellent choice for container gardens, rock beds, entryways, and low-water courtyards. Its sculptural form and subtle pink edges bring warmth and texture to modern landscapes, complementing plants like Aloe striata, Blue Elf Aloe, and Echeveria elegans.

In Arizona, it performs beautifully when planted near patios or walkways, where its glossy leaves and delicate flowers can be admired up close. It also thrives indoors near bright windows, offering year-round color and minimal maintenance for interior spaces.

When used outdoors, it fits perfectly in Mediterranean, desert, and coastal-themed landscapes where soft structure and subdued color contrast enhance the design.

Summary

The Pink Jade Plant (Crassula argentea ‘Pinky’) is a living sculpture of resilience and beauty. Its glossy leaves edged with pink, compact branching form, and easy-care nature make it a standout for both indoor and outdoor settings. With minimal water and simple maintenance, it provides long-lasting elegance, perfectly suited for Arizona’s desert lifestyle.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow)

Crassula argentea ‘Pinky’ Planting Guide

Location: Full sun to partial shade; morning sun with light afternoon shade is ideal in Arizona’s peak heat. Indoors, place near a bright south- or west-facing window.

Soil: Well-draining succulent or cactus mix blended with sand, perlite, or small gravel to improve aeration. Avoid compacted or moisture-retaining soils.

Spacing: Space 2–3 feet apart for mature width or use as a single accent in decorative pots.

Planting Depth: Plant so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Avoid burying the stem base.

Support: None required; the branching structure naturally supports itself.

Watering Guide

Watering After Planting: Water deeply once after planting to settle the soil. Do not water again until the top few inches are completely dry.

When is the Plant Established? The Pink Jade is considered established after approximately 3–6 months, once new growth appears and leaves hold firm color and thickness.

Watering Once Established: Water every 3–4 weeks in summer, and reduce to once every 6–8 weeks in winter. Always let the soil dry thoroughly before rewatering.

Drip Irrigation Setup: If using drip irrigation, place one low-flow emitter (0.5 gallon per hour) 6 inches from the base. Run infrequently, ensuring the soil dries out completely between cycles.

General Watering Tips: Avoid watering the leaves directly; apply water to the soil base. Overwatering is the primary cause of decline. Use a light gravel or rock mulch to retain warmth and limit weeds, keeping it a few inches away from the stem for airflow.