Although Crassula ovata – better known as the money tree – has been one of the most popular potted plants in homes around the world for decades, many people don’t even know that this seemingly modest succulent can also bloom. And not just with a single flower for display, but with a veritable fireworks display of tiny, star-shaped white flowers that emit a delicate but recognizable scent. The problem? Most specimens in captivity (read: in our apartments) never do this – not because they can’t, but because we treat them as decoration, not as living beings with the rhythm of nature.
A Crassula ovata has its own internal calendar, its own biological requirements and – like many people – its own whims. Flowering is not a given, but the result of precisely coordinated conditions that help it switch from the vegetative phase to the reproductive phase. Once we understand these triggers, we have the secret to success in our hands. And the reward? It is not just aesthetic. Flowering Crassula ovate means that you have offered it optimal conditions – and become part of a rare, quiet botanical triumph that shines brightly in the winter months.
How to get Crassula ovata to bloom: step by step
1. Thermal stress as a natural trigger for flowering
In nature, Crassula ovata thrives in areas with warm summers and cold, dry winters – South Africa is its home. Flowering is triggered by a change in photoperiod (longer nights) and a drop in temperatures, which signals to the plant that the breeding season is approaching. In practice, this means growing it outdoors in the summer (or at least in a very bright place), and gradually moving it indoors in the fall with a temperature of around 10–15 °C. The key: let night temperatures drop below 10 °C for at least a few weeks. This simulates the natural transition of the seasons.
Important: Warm central heating in the apartment often disables this crucial temperature signal. If possible, overwinter Crassula in a bright, unheated hallway or conservatory.
2. Intense light – without it there is no success
Crassula ovata is a succulent, which means it is adapted to bright light. It needs at least 5–6 hours of direct sunlight per dayIf you grow it indoors, choose a south-facing window sill. In winter, when there is less light, you can supplement it with a specialized LED plant light, which mimics the spectrum of daylight (around 6500 K).
Tip for keen botanists: Rotating the pot occasionally (by 90° per week) ensures even growth and greater exposure to light – which encourages flowering.
3. Watering: less is more
In nature, Crassula survives long periods without rain. Overwatering not only causes root rot, but also prevents it from entering the dormant phase – which is essential for flowering. The correct rule:
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- Spring-summer: Water moderately when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries out.
- Autumn-winter time: Reduce watering significantly – maybe once a month or less. Let the substrate dry out completely.
Warning: Never leave water in the base – Crassula hates wet “feet”.
4. Substrate and fertilization: a stable foundation for success
Crassula prefers a dry and airy environment, so provide it with a substrate for cacti or succulents. The mixture should contain sand, perlite or fine gravel, which allows for rapid water drainage.
Fertilize with balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) once a month during the growing season (March–September). From October to February, stop fertilizing – the plant needs to enter a resting phase.
Botanical trick: For an extra boost, use a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus content (e.g. NPK 10-20-10) just before the start of autumn – phosphorus encourages the formation of flower buds.
5. Age and size of the plant
Crassula ovata only begins to bloom when it reaches a certain biological maturity. Usually this means the age at least 3–5 years and a sufficiently developed root system. Young plants focus on growing leaves and twigs – which is understandable, given their “juvenile” stage.
Tip: The larger the plant and the more established its growth, the more likely it is to flower. Don't rush things - Crassula is a master of slow but steady progress.
When the Crassula finally blooms…
...your home will be filled with tiny, star-shaped flowers of white with soft pink hues. The scent? Discreet but recognizable – something between sweet vanilla and fresh air after a rain. The bloom lasts for several weeks, usually in winter (December-February), and is a real visual and aromatic feast. And the best part? It doesn’t require any special care once it blooms – just admiration.
Conclusion: The secret is not magic, but understanding the rhythm of nature
If you want your money tree Finally, when your plant shows its true worth, you need to listen to it. Not literally (although talking to your plants never hurts), but by taking into account its natural environment, biorhythm and needs. The right light, controlled drought, a cooler period and a little patience – that’s the secret recipe.
The flowering of Crassula ovate is no coincidence – it's a sign that you're doing something right. And maybe, just maybe, it'll bring you some real happiness.
