Kleinia Petraea (Creeping Jade Plant)

Kleinia Petraea is a succulent from the Asteraceae plant family and is in the Kleinia genus. However, it was formerly known as a species of the Senecio plants. Being a weeping-like plant, Kleinia Petraea is perfect for hanging in baskets indoors and outdoors. Kleinia Petraea is relatively easy to care for, but some specifics should be read. If you’re fond of the life of this succulent, continue reading to discover how you can raise a Kleinia Petraea yourself.

Origin And Description

Kleinia Petraea, also known as Creeping Jade or Weeping Jade, succulents originate in areas within Kenya and Tanzania, both in East Africa. These regions are safari’s, so they’re typically more rural-like and grassy. Moreover, they can be found in rocky, stone-ground, or bushy areas of Kenya and Tanzania.

Kleinia Petraea succulents have long, weeping stems. These stems are thick, flat and feature almost oval-shaped leaves on both sides of the stems. Interestingly enough, the leaves grow in an overlapping fashion, similar to the roofing of a house. The stems on this plant are known to reach 3 inches long; however, depending on where the plant is placed, they may be able to grow to the floor. In addition, Kleinia Petraea blooms orange flowers during the fall and winter; however, as beautiful as that may seem, the flowers have a bit of a cheesy, distasteful scent.

Kleinia Petraea Care

Due to its origination from a rural area, its thick leaves are capable of surviving during seasons of drought. This is great because it shows how hearty and strong the plant is; however, it still needs some specific care.

#1. Temperature

Kleinia Petraea’s typically like being in the natural sunlight the most; however, they do better in the shade when the temperatures reach above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, the lowest temperature it likes is 30 degrees Fahrenheit, although it can withstand frosty temperatures.

#2. Water

This succulent’s watering requirements are pretty similar to the requirements of a cactus – it doesn’t require much watering. Kleinia Petraea is not a very demanding plant, and it tends only to need moistened soil during the summer months. You want to ensure the plant isn’t overwatered, which can cause further issues. During the winter months, Kleinia Petraea goes dormant, so be sure that the soil has time to dry up before this time.

#3. Soil

The best soil to use for Kleinia Petraea is well-draining sandy soil. However, although sandy soil is the best option, the plant often appreciates somewhat acidic soil. When purchasing suitable soil, it’s not necessary to focus on the pH range because it will adapt to the pH of the soil.

#4. Fertilizer

Unlike many other succulents, Kleinia Petraea plants do need fertilizer at times. More specifically, it’s best to provide any blend of all-purpose fertilizer at least once yearly. Doing so benefits the succulent, providing the necessary nutrients for the plant to thrive. When applying the fertilizer, be sure to apply it very lightly. Fertilization is only needed during the summer; however, you can apply liquid fertilizer in the spring if necessary.

#5. Repotting

Repotting a Kleinia Petraea is usually unnecessary – an optional care step. However, if you choose to repot your succulent, ensure you use the correct supplies. For instance, you’ll need to use a gardening pot capable of draining fresh well-draining soil and possibly some fertilizer for a boost after transplanting.

#6. Pruning

Considering Kleinia Petraea features weeping-like stems and leaves, it’s likely that pruning may be necessary after some growth time; however, it’s not important. If you plan to prune your Kleinia Petraea, it’s best to do so during the springtime. To prune the plant, start at the firm part of the stems and pinch or cut the floppy parts. Tip: The cuttings can be kept for propagating with – read on to discover how to propagate with the cuttings.

Propagation

Kleinia Petraea can be propagated with either cuttings or seeds. When propagating this succulent, it’s best to do it during the spring, similarly to pruning.

Cuttings

Propagation with cuttings can be done with either leaf cuttings or stem cuttings of the Kleinia Petraea. When collecting these cuttings, a couple of centimeters of the stem or leaf should be taken off – ensure they’re healthy before using them. The cuttings used may need to be rinsed or dusted off and then sat out to allow drying for a few days. From there, plant the cuttings in a new pot with the well-draining soil and water it.

Seeds

Seed propagation with any succulent, including a Kleinia Petraea, takes much longer than propagation with cuttings. This is because the seeds have to take time to germinate first. During both propagation and germination, the seeds and soil will need watering constantly, especially if they’re drying up quicker.

Read More: How To Propagate String Of Pearls With Different Methods

Kleinia Petraea Variegata

Kleinia Petraea Variegata is very similar to Kleinia Petraea. They both have oval-shaped leaves; however, the stems are shorter than the Kleinia Petraea, and the leaves stand up rather than weep downward. In addition, Kleinia Petraea Variegata has more white marks on the leaves – some even show a few pink markings on them. Like the standard, the Kleinia Petraea Variegata also grows to 3 inches.

Final Words

As you can see, Kleinia Petraea succulents are the perfect indoor or outdoor plant to add to a home or garden. The plant requires very little care, and the care it does requires it is effortless. Whether you’re keen on starting gardening or you’re an expert, a Kleinia Petraea succulent could be an excellent choice for you.