The jade plant, also known as the “money tree,” is a beautiful succulent that can be successfully grown indoors.

 Native to the dry and sunny hillsides of South Africa, the jade plant, or crassula argentea as it's officially named, is a shrub-like plant that can grow to heights up to ten feet! Though you shouldn't expect to seem the same results when you're growing the plant indoors, it can still thrive for many years if given proper care and conditions.

Jade does well in a nutrient-rich soil mixed with a small amount of sand. Place it in a pot with good drainage and plenty of room. Make sure to put the plant in a sunny location where it will get plenty of light, but take care that it doesn't get so much hot, direct sunlight that it withers. Make sure the air is well-circulated.

You'll want to allow your jade plant to nearly dry out between waterings. Don't water the plant by pouring water on top of it; instead, fill a basin with water and place the jade inside so that the bottom of its pot is fully submerged in water. Allow the roots to soak up the water they need, then drain off any excess liquid that might have accumulated on top of the soil.

You can gage the health and watering needs of your jade plant by examining its leaves. Softly handle the plant's lowest leaves. If they're soft, you'll know it's time to water. If the leaves on any part of the plant are very withered, you need to definitely increase the plant's overall water intake. If you notice the edges of any leaves turning brown, your jade is likely getting scorched with too much blazing sunlight. When the jade is exhibiting fresh growth, it's okay to water a little more than usual. Just take care to not overdo it, as the jade is prone to mildew and fungus.

If you follow these tips for taking good care of your jade plant, it should be around to add beauty to your home for years to come. Why not welcome in the new year with a brand new “money tree”?