The Jade plant has exquisite characteristics that make it a sought-after succulent. These characteristics include its effortless maintenance and appealing aesthetics.
But did you know that it also bears a significant cultural symbolism?
The Jade plant’s symbolism varies across cultures and disciplines. What’s common among its different symbolisms though, is that it’s always associated with positivity.
Because of that, it’s favored as a gift for individuals who want to start an endeavor.
Whether you just want to know if a Jade plant is an exceptional lucky charm or want to get it as a gift, this article will help you.
Join us as we tour around the world to explore: What does a Jade plant symbolize?
Are Jade Plants Good Luck?
It’s a well-accepted belief that Jade plants bring good luck.
Because of the general regard that it brings fortune, the Jade plant is also known as the “money tree,” “money plant,” and “lucky plant.”
Cultures associate the Jade plant with wealth, prosperity, good health, and friendship. It’s a fitting plant for people who seek success in life, whether in careers or relationships.
Jade Plant’s Different Symbolisms Across Cultures
Different cultures around the world give symbolism to the Jade plant. In Asia, the Chinese and Japanese cultures assign distinct meanings to the plant.
In Africa, different communities, such as the Khoi people, see the plant as a symbol of health. Americans, on the other hand, give them as housewarming gifts.
Listed below are the various ideas the Jade plant symbolizes across cultures:
Symbolism In Asian Culture
Asian Culture gives high regard to Jade plants. In the Chinese discipline of Feng Shui, Jade plants are considered to bring prosperity.
It’s believed to attract “sheng chi” or the good Qi. This energy gives wealth and promotes success.
In addition, the Jade plant’s leaves also resemble jade stones, another relevant item in Feng Shui. Since jade stones come with an exorbitant price tag, people use Jade plants as an alternative.
For these reasons, it’s an ideal gift for people who need financial prosperity. You’ll often find it in business shop entrances or hallways of buildings.
In Japanese culture, Jade plants are cultivated to become bonsai plants. They’re ideal bonsai plants because of their branches’ pliability and trunks’ woody look.
The art form of bonsai-making takes years to practice. Due to this, bonsai Jade plants are seen as a testament to patience and dedication.
Symbolism In African Culture
Jade plants originate from the African continent, primarily in the countries of South Africa and Mozambique. Different African tribes used the Jade plant as both an ornamental and medicinal plant.
As such, they don’t just symbolize prosperity, but also good health.
Moreover, since Jade plants live long, they’re passed down from generation to generation as a symbol of good fortune.
Symbolism In American Culture
Just like in Chinese culture, the Jade plant is also associated with prosperity, wealth, and positivity in America. The reason for this is that the practice of Feng Shui has become more and more popular in the US.
Jade plants are gifted to friends and family members on special occasions such as birthdays, weddings, and housewarming parties.
Furthermore, the Jade plant’s thick, round leaves and sturdy trunks are believed to represent resilience and strength. Due to that, people often add it to their workspace and office.
Which Type of Jade Plant is Lucky?
The Crassulaceae plant family has hundreds of members. However, the most common Crassula you’ll find is the Crassula Ovata.
The Crassula Ovata is an esteemed lucky charm because, among the Crassulaceae family, its leaves resemble jade most.
Its leaves don’t just display a characteristic jade green color but also have a luster like an actual jade stone. Consequently, this Crassula Ovata is considered to be the Lucky Plant.
Final Thoughts
The Jade plant symbolizes positive properties across different cultures. It’s widely regarded as a lucky charm for prosperity, and good health.
Its association with wealth and success has made it a staple of special occasions. With its apparent ease of maintenance, there’s no wonder why it’s a beloved plant by many people.
Whether you believe in its mystical properties or not, the Jade plant can be an excellent plant for you.
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.