Sedum and Crassula Ovata are both succulent plants that are often confused and many people think they are the same plant. Crassula is the botanical name of the plant family to which Crassula Ovata belongs, but there are some important differences between the two.

Understanding these differences can help you take better care of your plants and ensure they thrive in your home or garden.

Difference between Jade and Crassula Ovata

Crassula Ovata vs Jade Plant
1. Sheet Size
One of the main differences is the size of the leaves.

Sedum:

Sedum leaves are usually small and compact, giving them a delicate appearance. Crassula Ovata:

Crassula Ovata leaves are similar in shape but larger and sturdier. This difference in size can make Crassula Ovata appear fuller and sturdier than the Jade Plant.
Click here to read:
Complete Care of Jade Plants
2. Sunlight Needs
Both plants love sunlight but have slightly different preferences.

Sedum:

They grow well with 3-4 hours of direct sunlight per day, so they are perfect for a sunny windowsill or an outdoor location with plenty of sun.

Crassula Ovata:

This plant prefers bright indirect light and can tolerate indoor environments with less direct sunlight, so it can adapt to a variety of lighting conditions.

3. Irrigation Requirements
Both plants have similar requirements when it comes to irrigation.

Both the Jade Tree and Crassula ovata are drought tolerant and grow well with minimal watering. It is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, which often occurs from overwatering.

Click here to read: Is the Jade Tree an Outdoor or Indoor Plant?

4. Tolerance of overwatering
Both plants are succulents, but they have different tolerances to overwatering.

Sedum:

This plant is somewhat tolerant of overwatering, but it is still best to avoid excessive moisture.

Crassula ovata:

Crassula ovata is sensitive to overwatering. If left in wet soil for too long, the roots are prone to rot, so be especially careful not to overwater.

5. Signs of overwatering
Overwatering can cause noticeable changes in the leaves of both plants.

Sedum:

Signs that the plant is getting too much water are when the leaves start to turn yellow. Crassula ovata:

In contrast, Crassula ovata leaves turn brown when overwatered, indicating more severe damage to the plant.

6. Scale and Growth
These plants can also be distinguished by their size.

Sedum:

Typically smaller in size, they are better suited to indoor pots and small spaces.

Crassula ovata:

They grow larger and more tree-like, especially if given enough space and care. They can grow up to 3 feet tall, whereas sedums usually remain more compact.

7. Soil Mix
Both plants prefer similar soil conditions.

A well-drained sandy mix soil is best for the jade plant and Crassula ovata. We recommend using a succulent or cactus mix to prevent water retention in the roots.

8. Seasonal Preferences
Every plant has a season in which it grows best.

Jade Plant:

Best in summer, thrives in warm temperatures between 25°C and 35°C. Crassula ovata:

Prefers cool climates and thrives in winter or milder climates. Optimal temperature is 18°C ​​to 25°C.
9. Temperature Tolerance
Both plants have a specific temperature range where they grow best.

Sedum:

Thrives in warm environments, so is suitable for tropical or warm areas where temperatures are consistently between 25°C and 35°C.
Crassula ovata:

Hards cool temperatures and prefers a range of 18°C ​​to 25°C, so is suitable for cooler climates and indoors.

Conclusion

Sedum and Crassula ovata have many similarities, but they have unique differences in leaf size, sun preferences, tolerance to overwatering, and seasonal growth habits. Knowing these differences can help you care for each plant properly and keep them healthy and strong. Understanding a plant's individual needs is key to successful plant care, whether you're growing them indoors or outdoors.