The jade plant with simple indoor care requirements and a very long lifespan of up to 70 years with the proper care. This plant is slow-growing—gaining only about two inches of height per year, but it can reach a total height between three and six feet.

Here are the main care requirements for growing a jade plant: 

• Plant in loose, well-draining soil. A succulent potting mix is the best option.
• Place in a bright window that receives indirect light; a south-facing or west-facing window works well.
• Water the plant frequently during the spring and summer to keep the soil moist—but never soggy. In the winter, reduce watering to about once per month.
• Use a 20-20-20 fertilizer during the growing season to promote robust growth.

Jade plants need a lot of light, at least six hours of bring indirect light per day. The type of light is important since direct sunlight can be too harsh and cause the leaves to shrivel and burn, especially for young jade plants. However, too little light can cause problems too. In low-light conditions, the jade plant will have leggy growth that causes the plant to become weak and topple over—rather than maintaining a full, bushy appearance. To find the best spot to place a jade plant in your home, look for a south-facing window. A west-facing window should also provide enough light.