How to Grow and Care for the Ivy Jade
Learn to cultivate the vining Ivy Jade. This guide clarifies its identity and provides the essential care needed for this unique, succulent-like plant.
The Ivy Jade (Senecio macroglossus), also known as Natal Ivy or Wax Ivy, is a climbing vine with glossy, fleshy leaves that resemble ivy. Despite its common names, it should be distinguished from true ivies of the Hedera genus and the common Jade Plant, Crassula ovata. As a member of the Asteraceae family, it is related to daisies and produces pale yellow, daisy-like flowers.
Ivy Jade Care Guide
Light
For healthy growth, the Ivy Jade prefers bright, indirect light. An ideal placement is near a window with a southern, eastern, or western exposure where the light is filtered. While it can tolerate a few hours of direct morning sun, excessive direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Water
The plant’s semi-succulent nature makes it sensitive to overwatering. Use the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. When you water, saturate the soil until water exits the drainage holes. If the foliage appears pale and limp, it is a sign of dehydration, while watering should be reduced during the winter months.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is necessary for the Ivy Jade to prevent root rot. A commercial potting mix for cacti and succulents is a suitable choice. You can also create your own mix by combining standard potting soil with perlite or sand to improve drainage. A 50/50 split between a cactus mix and an organic potting medium can provide optimal results.
Temperature & Humidity
Ivy Jade thrives in average room temperatures, between 18°C and 26°C (64°F and 79°F). It is not frost-hardy and should be protected from temperatures that dip near freezing. The plant is tolerant of average household humidity and does not require special arrangements like misting.
Fertilizer
During its active growing season in spring and summer, the Ivy Jade benefits from feeding every four to six weeks. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as one with a 10-10-10 or 7-9-5 ratio, can be applied. Fertilizing should be suspended in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
Propagating Ivy Jade
New Ivy Jade plants are effectively created through stem cuttings during the spring and summer growing season. Select a healthy vine and take cuttings that are approximately 6 to 8 centimeters long, ensuring each has at least a few leaves.
Prepare the cuttings by removing the leaves from the lower 2 to 3 centimeters of the stem. For water propagation, place the prepared cutting in a jar of water, ensuring the leafless nodes are submerged. Roots should begin to appear within a few weeks.
For soil propagation, plant the cutting directly into a well-draining potting mix. Plant the bare stem deep enough so the leaf nodes are covered. Keep the soil lightly moist until the cutting establishes itself, which is indicated by new growth.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves are a frequent problem with Ivy Jade and often result from overwatering. If you notice yellowing, check the soil moisture. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again and ensure the pot has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
Stretched, sparse growth, or legginess, is a clear sign the plant is not receiving enough light, causing the spaces between leaves to elongate. To fix this, move the plant to a location with brighter, indirect light. You can also prune the long vines to encourage fuller growth.
Ivy Jade can be susceptible to common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids, which may be found on young growing tips. Regular inspection can help you catch an infestation early. If pests are present, they can be managed with applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Ivy Jade Toxicity
Senecio macroglossus is toxic to both pets and humans if ingested. The plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause gastrointestinal distress with symptoms like nausea and vomiting. In cases of large or prolonged consumption, more severe outcomes such as liver damage can occur.
Due to this toxicity, place the Ivy Jade in a location safely out of reach of cats, dogs, and small children. While the plant’s unpleasant taste may deter most pets from consuming a large amount, the risk remains. If you suspect a pet has ingested any part of the plant, seek veterinary advice promptly.