About Gollum Jade
The stunning succulent, Crassula Ovata Gollum, popularly known as Gollum jade, is a stunning houseplant and belongs to the jade plant family. It is an evergreen perennial succulent that belongs to the Crassulaaceae family and is a variety of the Crassula ovata.
Inspired by movies like Shrek and The Lord of the Rings, the Gollum jade plant have been fondly nicknamed from these movies, often referred to after Gollum 535. It is closely related to the hobbit jade plant, and both the succulents get their names from the writings of JRR Tolkien. It is also referred to as Shrek ears, ET fingers, money tree, trumpet jade, Gollum jade, and finger succulents. Get this – Crassula ovata Gollum jade is also considered a symbol of good luck in Chinese culture that's why sometimes it is also referred to as the Money plant!
Gollum Jade succulent plants are rare plants native to South Africa's tropical regions and Southeastern African countries such as Mozambique. These Shrek ears plants have characteristic tubular green leaves, elongated with red tinges towards the tips that curl inwards. It is also known for its unusual, fleshy, or succulent foliage that is long and tubular in shape (similar to ogre's ears). The puckered ends are akin to suction cups. The crassula ovata Gollum flowers are white or pink-colored star-shaped, making them look unique yet attractive. Sometimes, you may wonder the reason behind a red jade plant. It means that the crassula hobbit jade plant is getting way too much sunlight than required.
The Gollum plant has a slow growth rate. The Gollum jade succulent can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it the talk of your yard or indoor environment. However, at times, expect a huge jade plant, above the height of 4 feet, provided it gets all the right conditions.
The jade succulent is so popular amongst nature lovers that you will find framed Sylvie succulent pictures put up in their living rooms. Search online with the words ‘jade plant near me’ to find good-quality ones.
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In this article, we'll dive into everything you need to know about Gollum jade so that you can enjoy this exotic beauty safely and happily. So why wait?
Crassula Jade Plant – Care Guide
Gollum jade is a low-maintenance jade plant that thrives with the right conditions and careful watering.
Watering Needs
The Crassula Ovata Gollum Jade is a succulent plant that is very easy to care for. It is drought-tolerant and only needs to be watered when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can be harmful to this Gollum jade, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings. During the growing season, which is usually in the spring and summer months, it may need to be watered more frequently. But during the dormant season, which is usually in the fall and winter months, it may only need to be watered once a month.
When watering Gollum Jade, it is important to water it thoroughly. This means that you should water it until the water runs out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. After watering, make sure to empty any excess water from the saucer underneath the pot. This will prevent the roots from sitting in water, which can cause root rot. It is also important to use well-drained soil and a pot with drainage holes to ensure that the soil doesn't become waterlogged.
Overall, this jade tree succulent appreciates water. Ensure that you water the plant well, but the topsoil must be dry between two watering sessions. Avoid overwatering.
Light Requirements
Gollum jade prefers bright full sun for at least 4-6 hours daily. It will not develop an appealing reddish tinge at the tips of its leaves if not exposed to full sunlight. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can burn the leaves. If the jade succulent is not getting enough bright sunlight, it may become leggy, and the leaves may lose their vibrant green color. If it is getting too much light, the leaves may turn yellow or brown and your Crassula plant may become stressed.
In general, it is best to place the Gollum jade in a bright location, such as near a south-facing window that receives indirect sunlight. You can also use artificial light to supplement the Crassula ovata light requirements. If you notice that your jade plant is not getting enough light, you can move it to a brighter location or provide additional artificial light.
Overall, the crassula jade plant loves bright natural light. But ensure it is not directly falling on the plant. Prefer to keep the Gollum jade plant under partial shade as the full shade can make the tubular succulent less vibrant.
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
The Gollum jade likes very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 5.6 - 6.5. Succulents require fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Your soil must have a sandy texture and a low water-holding capacity, just like desert soil. Soggy wet soil can damage your jade succulent and contributes to bacterial and fungal rot. In addition, because of a lack of oxygen, soggy soil substitutes air pockets with water, resulting in an anaerobic environment that can kill your jade plant.
As an alternative, you can create your own potting mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil. Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.
Gollum jade does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it can benefit from occasional feedings during the growing season. You can use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 5-10-5 formula of NPK. Fertilize the jade money plant once a year during the growing season, which is usually in the spring. Do not fertilize the jade crassula during the dormant season, which is usually in the fall and winter months. Over-fertilizing can be harmful to the jade succulent and can cause the leaves to turn brown or fall off. It is also important to water the Crassula plant thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent fertilizer burn.
Hardiness Zone & More
The jade plant requires a normal temperature range to survive and grow. This big Gollum jade, round succulent loves to grow in the spring, though, which is the right time to take this jade succulent outdoors. Average temperatures should be around 55°F to 74°F in USDA zones 9-13. Ensure that the temperature does not go below 50°F. People living in frost-free areas or warm climates can place the crassula argentea cv Gollum and other varieties outdoors, even during winters. It cannot tolerate cold temperatures as it is not winter hardy. If living in a cold region, plant them in containers and move these jade plants indoors during winter.
When it comes to Gollum jade care the succulent Gollum plant thrives best in normal humidity. It is not required to mist them too often if they do not complain about higher humid conditions.
Pruning
To prune the Gollum jade, simply use a clean pair of scissors or pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged leaves. You can also prune your jade plant to control its size or shape. Be sure to sanitize your tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of disease. Overall, pruning the Gollum jade is not necessary, but it can help keep the money plant healthy and looking its best.
Propagating the Gollum Jade
To propagate the Gollum jade, you can use stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Propagation can be a fun way to create new succulents and expand your collection of Gollum jade. Be patient and give the cuttings time to take root and establish themselves in their new pots. Here are the steps to propagate the plant using stem cuttings:
- Take a stem cutting that is at least 3 inches long and has several leaves.
- Let the cutting dry out for a day or two to allow the cut end to callus over.
- Fill a small pot with well-draining soil and make a hole in the center.
- Dip the cut end of the stem cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in the hole.
- Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight.
- Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and wait for the cutting to take root.
To propagate the plant using leaf cuttings, follow these steps:
- Take a healthy leaf and cut it into sections that are at least 2 inches long.
- Let the cuttings dry out for a day or two to allow the cut ends to callus over.
- Fill a small pot with well-draining soil and make a hole in the center.
- Dip the cut end of the leaf-cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in the hole.
- Water the soil thoroughly and place the pot in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight.
- Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and wait for the cuttings to take root.
Overwintering
To overwinter the Gollum jade, you should bring it indoors before the first frost or if the temperature drops below 50 F. Place it in a bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Water the jade plant sparingly during the winter months, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering's. You can also reduce the amount of fertilizer you give the succulent during this time.
Keep an eye out for pests, which can be more common in indoor environments. With proper care, your Gollum jade should survive the winter and continue to thrive in the spring.
Blooming of Gollum Jade
A mature Gollum jade of at least 3 years can bloom, but it is not a common occurrence. When it does bloom, it produces small, star-shaped flowers that are typically white or pink in color. The flowers usually appear in the summer or fall and can last for several weeks.
To encourage blooming, make sure your Gollum jade is getting enough light. The plant prefers bright, indirect light, but too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn. You can also try fertilizing the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to give it an extra boost.
Keep in mind that blooming is not a guarantee, and the Gollum jade is still a beautiful Shrek ears plant even without flowers. Enjoy the unique shape and texture of the leaves and appreciate the plant for what it is!
Potting & Repotting of Gollum Jade
To pot or repot the Gollum jade, choose a container with good drainage holes and fill it with well-draining soil. A specialized succulent potting mix works well for this plant. When repotting, gently remove this jade plant from its current container and shake off any excess soil. Place your Gollum jade in the new container and add fresh soil around the root ball. Water it thoroughly and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
It's important not to overpot this Gollum jade succulent, as it prefers to be slightly root-bound. A good rule of thumb is to choose a container that is only slightly larger than the current one. Repotting should be done every 2-3 years, or when the succulent has outgrown its current container.
Medicinal value of Gollum Jade
The succulent crassula Gollum has medicinal benefits too. Its leaves contain compounds that have been traditionally used in herbal medicine for their healing properties. These compounds are believed to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making Gollum jade a potential natural remedy for certain health conditions. Extracts from tube leaf succulents are applied to wounds, warts, and other skin diseases. The extract also helps treat stomach-related issues. In Chinese traditional medicine, a jade plant is considered best for diabetes.
Additionally, some studies suggest that Gollum jade may have antimicrobial properties, further highlighting its potential therapeutic uses. Please consult with a healthcare expert before consuming this plant as the proper dosage is unknown.
Pests & Common Problems of Gollum Jade
Gollum jade is a fairly easy plant to care for, but like any succulent jade plant, it can be susceptible to pests and common problems. Here are some of the most common issues you might encounter with your Gollum jade:
Overwatering: Gollum jade is a drought-tolerant plant and can go for long periods without water. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it's important not to let the plant sit in standing water.
Pest infestation: The mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can infest Gollum jade plants and cause damage to the leaves and stem. These tiny insects can be treated with a solution of water and dish soap, or with an insecticidal soap.
Leaf drop: Gollum jade plants can drop leaves for a variety of reasons, including overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. If you notice your Shrek plant dropping leaves, it's important to identify the underlying cause and take steps to correct it.
Brown spots: Brown spots on the leaves of Crassula ovata Gollum can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. If you notice brown spots on your jade plant's leaves, it's important to identify the underlying cause and take steps to correct it.
Yellowing leaves: Yellowing leaves on Gollum jade plants can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to extreme temperatures. If you notice yellowing leaves on your plant, it's important to identify the underlying cause and take steps to correct it.
Leaf curl: Leaf curls on Gollum jade plants can be caused by a variety of factors, including overwatering, underwatering, or exposure to direct sunlight. If you notice a leaf curl on your plant's leaves, it's important to identify the underlying cause and take steps to correct it.
Overall, Gollum jade is a fairly low-maintenance plant that can provide many years of enjoyment with proper care and attention. By keeping an eye out for these common problems and taking steps to prevent them, you can help ensure that your Gollum jade stays healthy and vibrant for years to come.
Types of Jade Succulents
Popular as a houseplant, the Crassula Ovata or the money plant has different varieties. The different jade plant types are:
- Crassula Arborescens is a jade succulent type known as silver dollar jade or Blue Buddha Bush.
- Crassula Arborescens Blue Bird Variegata is a jade plant species called Blue Bird Money. It is a crassula variegated jade type.
- The Hottentotta dwarf variety is a rare type of jade plant.
- The Crassula cv Gollum is a compact shrubby succulent.
- Crassula Arborescens Undulatifolia or the Ripple Jade Plant with a bonsai-like feel.
- Crassula Argentea Gollum or Lady Fingers or Gollum's fingers
- Argentea Crassula gollum variegated
- Crassula Ovata or the Lucky Jade
- Crassula Ovata Botany Bay is a recent discovery
- Crassula Ovata Harbour Lights
- Crassula Ovata Hobbit or crassula jade hobbit or the Bonsai Jade Tree
- The Royal Horticultural Society awarded crassula Ovata Hummel's or the sunset jade succulent the Garden Merit Award in 1993.
- Crassula Ovata Little Jade Tree is the small jade tree
- Crassula Ovata Mini Jade or Miniature Jade or Gollum miniature
- Crassula Ovata Pink
- Crassula portulaca Afra or the Chinese Jade Plant
- Portulacaria Afra Aurea or the Yellow Rainbow Bush
- Portulacaria Afra Cascade or Low Elephant Bush
- Jade horn tree with horn-like leaves.
- The Sunset jade plant is ideal for beginners.
Our Most Favorite Varieties – Available at Planet Desert
1- Crassula Ovata Variegata
Crassula ovata Variegata, also known as Variegated Jade Plant or variegated ET fingers, is a low-maintenance, compact, and attractive succulent plant with fleshy, oval-shaped leaves in creamy white and green hues, suitable for indoor cultivation.
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2- Crassula ovata Gollum jade
The Gollum jade plant, also known as Crassula ovata Gollum, is a unique, finger-like, glossy green - slightly ringed red at top, elongated, and narrowly opening succulent, distinguishing it from other Crassulaceae species.
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FAQs
IS A MAURE JADE PLANT POISONOUS?
To a certain extent, yes. Therefore, it is ideal for keeping the tube succulent away from pets and animals.
IS JADE A SUCCULENT PLANT?
Yes, jade plants are succulents. They store water in their leaves, fulfilling the hydration needs of the plant. The Gollum jade succulent hates sitting in water like other succulents.
WHAT ARE THE CRASSULA OVATA’S MEDICINAL USES?
The succulent crassula Gollum has medicinal benefits too. Extracts from tube leaf succulents are applied on wounds, warts, and other skin diseases. The extract also helps treat stomach-related issues. In Chinese traditional medicine, a jade plant is considered best for diabetes.
WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE JADE PLANT?
The crassula argentea or the Gollum cactus plant has its origin in South Africa but has been mostly nursery-produced or cultivated as a hybrid houseplant in European countries and the US. Since it is tough and can survive challenging conditions, the jade plant crassula argentea has been reared in other parts of the world for over a century now.
NAME RARE JADE PLANTS
There are about 14,00 types of crassula ovata succulents. Some of the varieties are pretty rare. The Ripple Jade, for example, is a Gollum jade bonsai and one of the rare ones. Similarly, the Hoteentotta is an unusual plant. It is plump and dwarfish with fuzzy leaves.
HOBBIT JADE VS. GOLLUM JADE
There are many similarities between crassula ovata Gollum & hobbit. But, there are differences too. Let's compare crassula ovata hobbit vs. Gollum:
| Difference | Crassula ovata hobbit gollum | Crassula gollum plant |
| LEAF | Hobbit has fleshy leaves curving downwards and backward. It is a red-tipped jade where the tips of leaves are red. | Crassula is a tube-like succulent, especially the leaves |
| THE SHAPE OF THE LEAF | Oval-shaped leaf | This is a many fingers plant with finger-like leaves. |
| BLOOMING SEASON | These succulents flower during the fall and winter seasons. | Crassula ovata Gollum flowers are born during the summer season. |
NAME A SUCCULENT THAT LOOKS LIKE A JADE PLANT.
Portulaacaria afra is an African succulent species that looks like the original jade but is a dwarf in every way. Therefore, it is known as dwarf jade or baby jade.
WHAT DOES A BABY JADE PLANT LOOK LIKE?
The baby jade plant has tiny leaves that are a replica of the original jade. The growth of the baby jade plant is compact.
TELL US ABOUT THE JADE PLANT VS. JADE TREE.
The Crassula Gollum jade plant looks like a miniature crassula jade tree. The stems, for example, are woody and thick, giving it the appearance of a tree.
FAQs Regarding Gollum Jade Plant Care - things to keep in mind
Whether you are looking for variegated jade or hanging jade plant care, follow these tips:
WHAT IS THE REASON FOR GOLLUM'S JADE WRINKLED?
Crassula ovata Gollum shriveled means that the plant is underwater. It is the hobbit succulent's way of fighting drought stress.
- Jade plant light requirements: One aspect of crassula ovata plant care is that it loves bright light. The light highlights the foliage color with the characteristic reddish edges on leaves.
- Gollum jade watering: This plant should not be watered more than it needs. Only when the topsoil is completely dry should you water the plant.
- Money tree cactus soil: It needs fast-draining soil. The ideal mix contains garden soil with perlite or pumice and sand.
- Jade plant hardiness: The hardiness zone of hobbit fingers succulent is 10 and 11.
- Hobbit succulent propagation: The best method of Gollum succulent propagation is via stem and leaf cuttings. Propagation can be done from crassula umbrella seeds too.
HOW TO TRANSPLANT JADE CUTTINGS?
Take a stem or leaf cutting. Let it dry. Once dried, place it into a well-drained soil mix containing perlite (50%) and soil (50%). Water it sparingly for the soil mix to get damp. This is how you can transplant jade plant cuttings.
HOW MUCH LIGHT DOES A JADE PLANT NEED INDOORS?
Place the jade plant near the entrance. Keep it towards the southeast direction. One essential aspect of crassula ovata Gollum care indoors is receiving sunlight for at least six hours. Make sure that the place your plant is kept receives direct sunlight if it is a mature jade and indirect sunlight when jade plants are small.
IDEAL LIGHTING FOR THE SPOON JADE PLANT
Place the succulent in direct sunlight to get the reddish tinge to its leaves.
Not only Gollum jade plants are appreciated for their beauty, but they are also meant to bring good luck. That is the reason why many people buy them to keep in their homes and workplaces. In addition, they are extremely easy to care for and grow problem-free indoors. Get yours and experience planting this bright & beautiful crassula species.