Silver Dollar Tree (Eucalyptus cinerea)

The Silver Dollar Tree, also commonly known as the Silver Dollar Jade, Blue Buddha Bush, or Money Plant, botanically named Crassula arborescens, is a captivating succulent prized for its distinctive, silvery-blue, coin-shaped leaves. This easy-to-grow plant offers both visual appeal and symbolic significance, often associated with prosperity and good fortune. This guide will explore everything you need to know about successfully cultivating this remarkable plant, including watering, propagation, and troubleshooting common problems. Continue reading, and you will discover all the fascinating secrets the Silver Dollar Tree offers.

Understanding the Silver Dollar Tree (Crassula arborescens)

The Crassula arborescens, far beyond its eye-catching appearance, boasts a rich history and unique characteristics that make it a beloved choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts. It is native to the Western Cape of South Africa, a region known for its dry, rocky landscapes. This explains the plant’s remarkable drought tolerance and preference for well-draining soil.

Common name	Silver Dollar Tree, Silver Dollar Jade, Blue Buddha Bush, Money Plant
Botanical name	Crassula arborescens
Family	Crassulaceae
Genus	Crassula
Species	arborescens
Origin	Western Cape, South Africa
Native	South Africa
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Succulent
Hardiness zone	9, 10, 11
Sunlight	Bright Indirect Light, Partial Sun
Maintenance	Low
Water	Low
Drainage	Well-Drained
Spacing	12-36 in. (30-90 cm), depending on desired size
Flowering period	Spring, Summer (more common outdoors)
Height	Up to 4 ft. (1.2 m) indoors, larger outdoors
Growth rate	Slow
Flower color	Pink, White
Stem color	Green, becoming brown and woody with age
Leaf Color	Silvery-Blue
Flower benefit	Attracts pollinators (when flowering outdoors)
Garden style	Rock Garden, Container Garden, Mediterranean Garden
Uses	Houseplant, Container Plant, Specimen Plant
Toxicity	Mildly toxic to pets and humans
Drought Tolerance	High
Air Purification	Yes (moderate)
Propagation	Leaf Cuttings, Stem Cuttings

Key Characteristics:

Feature	Description
Appearance	Rounded, fleshy, silver-blue leaves resembling coins; thick, sturdy trunk and branches that become woody with age; can reach heights of up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) indoors, and even larger in its native habitat.
Growth Rate	Relatively slow-growing, especially indoors.
Blooming	Produces clusters of small, star-shaped, pink or white flowers in the spring or summer, though blooming is more common in outdoor plants receiving ample sunlight.
Light Needs	Thrives in bright, indirect light; can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially during the morning hours, but intense afternoon sun can scorch the leaves. At least 4-6 hours a day of strong, indirect light is a good rule of thumb.
Watering	Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of problems. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain away. Reduce watering significantly during the winter dormancy period.
Soil	Requires a well-draining soil mix. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal. You can also amend regular potting soil with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage.
Temperature	Prefers average room temperatures (65-75°F / 18-24°C). Can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures in winter (down to 50°F / 10°C), but protect from frost.
Humidity	Average indoor humidity is usually sufficient. Avoid placing the plant in excessively humid environments.
Toxicity	Mildly toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep out of reach of curious animals and children. Symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea.
USDA Hardiness Zones	Typically hardy in USDA zones 9-11, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation in warmer climates.
Dormancy Period	Winter.

Distinguishing Crassula arborescens from Other Jade Plants:

While often called “Silver Dollar Jade,” Crassula arborescens has distinct features that set it apart from the more common jade plant, Crassula ovata. The most notable difference is the leaf color and shape. Crassula arborescens has distinctly silvery-blue, rounded leaves, while Crassula ovata typically has green, oval-shaped leaves, sometimes with red edges. The arborescens species also tends to have a more upright and tree-like growth habit compared to the ovata. Another differentiating factor is the presence of a waxy coating, or “bloom,” on the leaves of C. arborescens, giving them a matte finish.

A study conducted by the University of California, Davis, highlighted the differences in light absorption and water retention capabilities between Crassula arborescens and Crassula ovata. The silvery-blue leaves of C. arborescens, with their waxy coating, are better adapted to reflecting intense sunlight and conserving moisture, making them more drought-tolerant than their green-leaved counterparts. This supports their preference for brighter light and less frequent watering.

How to Care for Your Silver Dollar Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide

Providing optimal care for your Silver Dollar Tree is key to maintaining its health and vibrant appearance. Gardencenterpoint.com’s detailed guide ensures your succulent thrives.

Watering Your Silver Dollar Tree Correctly

The most crucial aspect of Silver Dollar Tree care is watering. Overwatering is the most common mistake, leading to root rot, a fatal condition for succulents.

1. The “Soak and Dry” Method: Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. To check, insert your finger about 2 inches (5 cm) into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.
2. Thorough Watering: When watering, saturate the soil until water drains freely from the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures all the roots receive adequate moisture.
3. Discard Excess Water: Empty any water that collects in the saucer beneath the pot. Allowing the plant to sit in standing water promotes root rot.
4. Seasonal Adjustments: Reduce watering significantly during the winter months when the plant is dormant. The plant requires very little water during this period. You might only need to water once a month or even less.
5. Signs of Overwatering: Yellowing leaves, mushy stems, and a foul odor from the soil are all signs of overwatering.
6. Signs of Underwatering: Shriveling leaves, leaf drop, and a lack of new growth can indicate underwatering. However, leaf drop can also be caused by other factors, so assess the overall condition of the plant.

Watering Frequency Guide:

Season	Frequency (Approximate)	Notes
Spring/Summer	Every 2-3 weeks, or when dry	Active growth period; monitor soil moisture closely.
Fall	Every 3-4 weeks, or when dry	Gradually reduce watering as the plant prepares for dormancy.
Winter	Every 4-6 weeks, or when dry	Minimal watering during dormancy; allow the soil to dry out almost completely.

Providing the Right Light for Your Silver Dollar Tree

Silver Dollar Trees thrive in bright, indirect light.

1. Ideal Placement: A south-facing window with a sheer curtain to filter the intense afternoon sun is an excellent location. East- or west-facing windows can also work, but monitor the plant for signs of scorching or insufficient light.
2. Direct Sunlight: While the plant can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, prolonged exposure to intense afternoon sun can burn the leaves.
3. Insufficient Light: If the plant doesn’t receive enough light, it may become etiolated (stretched and leggy) with pale, weak growth. The leaves may also lose their vibrant silvery-blue color.
4. Artificial Light: If natural light is limited, you can supplement with grow lights. Full-spectrum LED grow lights are a good option, providing the necessary wavelengths for photosynthesis without generating excessive heat. Position the light 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) above the plant and provide 12-14 hours of light per day.

Choosing the Right Soil and Pot

Well-draining soil is essential for preventing root rot.

1. Soil Mix: Use a commercially available cactus or succulent potting mix. These mixes are formulated to provide excellent drainage and aeration.
2. DIY Soil Mix: You can create your own well-draining mix by combining:
   • 1 part regular potting soil
   • 1 part perlite
   • 1 part coarse sand or pumice
3. Pot Selection: Choose a pot with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are an excellent choice because they are porous and allow the soil to dry out more quickly. Avoid using pots that are too large, as this can lead to excess moisture retention in the soil. The pot should be only slightly larger than the root ball.
4. Repotting: Silver Dollar Trees are slow-growing and don’t need frequent repotting. Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Spring is the best time to repot.

Fertilizing Your Silver Dollar Tree

Silver Dollar Trees are not heavy feeders and require only minimal fertilization.

1. Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. A fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents is ideal.
2. Fertilizing Schedule: Fertilize only during the active growing season (spring and summer). Feed the plant once a month at most.
3. Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Over-fertilizing can cause salt buildup in the soil, which can damage the roots. It’s better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize.
4. Do Not Fertilize in Winter: Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period (winter).

Temperature and Humidity

Silver Dollar Trees prefer average room temperatures and humidity levels.

1. Ideal Temperature: Maintain a temperature between 65-75°F (18-24°C).
2. Winter Temperatures: Can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures in winter (down to 50°F / 10°C), but protect from frost.
3. Humidity: Average indoor humidity is usually sufficient. Avoid placing the plant in excessively humid environments, such as bathrooms.

Propagating Your Silver Dollar Tree

Propagating Silver Dollar Trees is a rewarding way to expand your collection or share this beautiful plant with others. The two most common methods are leaf cuttings and stem cuttings. Gardencenterpoint shares the best practices for both.

Leaf Propagation

1. Select Healthy Leaves: Choose healthy, plump leaves from the parent plant. Gently twist and pull the leaf from the stem, ensuring you get the entire leaf, including the base.
2. Callus Formation: Allow the leaf cuttings to callus over for a few days. This prevents rot when planted. Place the leaves in a dry, shaded location.
3. Planting: Once the cut end has calloused, lay the leaves on top of a well-draining succulent mix. You can also slightly bury the calloused end in the soil.
4. Watering: Mist the soil lightly every few days, keeping it slightly moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering.
5. Root and New Growth: After a few weeks to a few months, roots and tiny new plants will begin to form at the base of the leaves.
6. Transplanting: Once the new plants have developed a reasonable root system and the original leaf has withered, you can carefully transplant them into individual pots.

Stem Propagation

1. Select a Healthy Stem: Choose a healthy stem that is at least 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) long.
2. Cut the Stem: Use a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears to cut the stem.
3. Remove Lower Leaves: Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches (5 cm) of the stem.
4. Callus Formation: Allow the stem cutting to callus over for a few days in a dry, shaded location.
5. Planting: Once the cut end has calloused, plant the stem cutting in a well-draining succulent mix. Bury the bottom 2 inches (5 cm) of the stem, where the leaves were removed.
6. Watering: Water sparingly until roots develop. Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy.
7. Root Development: Roots should develop within a few weeks to a few months. You can gently tug on the stem to check for resistance, indicating root growth.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with Silver Dollar Trees

Even with the best care, Silver Dollar Trees can sometimes experience problems. Gardencenterpoint provides guidance on identifying and addressing common issues.

Leaves Falling Off

Leaf drop can be caused by several factors:

1. Overwatering: The most common cause. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings.
2. Underwatering: While less common, underwatering can also cause leaf drop. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
3. Sudden Temperature Changes: Drastic temperature fluctuations can stress the plant and cause leaf drop. Keep the plant in a stable environment.
4. Natural Leaf Shedding: Older leaves may naturally yellow and drop as the plant ages. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves are often a sign of:

1. Overwatering: Again, the primary culprit. Check for soggy soil and root rot.
2. Nutrient Deficiency: Yellowing leaves can also indicate a lack of nutrients, particularly nitrogen. However, over-fertilizing can also cause problems, so be cautious. If you haven’t fertilized in a while, consider using a diluted, balanced fertilizer.
3. Poor Lighting: While they love bright locations, areas lacking enough light can also lead to yellow leaves.

Pests

Silver Dollar Trees are relatively pest-resistant, but they can occasionally be affected by:

1. Mealybugs: These tiny, white, cottony insects suck sap from the plant, weakening it. Treat infestations with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Apply directly to the mealybugs with a cotton swab.
2. Spider Mites: These tiny pests create fine webs on the plant and cause yellowing or stippling of the leaves. Increase humidity and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Scale Insects: Scale appears as small, brown bumps on the stems and leaves. They can be removed manually or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Treatment for Pests:

Pest	Treatment
Mealybugs	Isopropyl alcohol (70%) applied directly with a cotton swab, insecticidal soap, neem oil.
Spider Mites	Increase humidity, insecticidal soap, neem oil, miticide (for severe infestations).
Scale Insects	Manual removal (for small infestations), insecticidal soap, neem oil, horticultural oil.

Always isolate infested plants to prevent the spread of pests to other plants. Repeat treatments as needed, following the instructions on the product label.

Silver Dollar Eucalyptus Meaning and Symbolism

While the focus of this guide has been on the Crassula arborescens (Silver Dollar Tree succulent), the term “Silver Dollar Tree” is also sometimes used to refer to Eucalyptus cinerea, a species of eucalyptus with round, silvery-blue leaves. It’s important to distinguish between these two plants. The Eucalyptus cinerea is often associated with:

• Protection: Eucalyptus is often used in cleansing rituals and is believed to ward off negative energy.
• Healing: Eucalyptus oil has medicinal properties and is used to treat respiratory ailments.
• Abundance: The round, coin-shaped leaves symbolize prosperity and wealth.

The Crassula arborescens, while sharing a similar common name, carries its own symbolism, primarily related to:

• Prosperity and Good Fortune: Often given as a gift to bring good luck and financial success.
• Resilience: Its ability to thrive in harsh conditions symbolizes resilience and perseverance.