Wild-Caught Jade Plant Thrives on Neglect in San Diego

A branch stripped from a wild bush in north San Diego (eucalyptus grove) grows into a miniature tree with plump, dark-green oval leaves that shrink when dry, woody stems, top-only leaf growth, tiny white flowers, and easy propagation from single leaves. The expert identifies it as a Jade plant (Crassula ovata)—all described traits match. Care: water by weight (soak, drain, wait until pot feels light), typical for succulents.