The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is native to South Africa. A member of the stonecrop (Crassulaceae) family, it is a popular, indoor, branched succulent shrub that can grow to 6 feet tall but usually reaches a height of 18 to 30 inches. As it matures, its trunklike succulent stems and branches often take on the appearance of a miniature tree. Two-inch oblong, fleshy, shiny evergreen leaves may acquire red tints when grown in direct sun. Tiny white-to-pink flowers may appear from midwinter to spring, but rarely on indoor plants, which should be planted in a well-drained, loamy potting mixture. Jade plants are intolerant of moist, poorly drained soils. Water moderately, and allow the soil to dry between watering. This plant needs bright light but appreciates some afternoon shade and thrives in relatively low humidity. The jade plant does not require winter dormancy but appreciates a resting period with reduced watering from fall to late winter. It is well known for its potential as a bonsai specimen, because it forms a bonsai very easily when pruning is done correctly. Many who learn bonsai begin with this plant because it is durable, easy to put through the pruning process, and attractive.