Wildlife value of Jade Plant — an unexpected bonus
I planted Jade Plant primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. easy propagation from leaf cuttings seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.
I grow it in a vertical living wall frame which allows me to watch the activity up close. surprising flower spikes in late spring is the most active period for wildlife visits. using a gritty well-draining cactus compost mix is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. leaf drop in cold or draughty positions is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.
Jade Plant