Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' (Gollum Jade)

Description

The Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' is a very odd relative of the common jade plant, you’ll know it by the weird little finger-like tubes that it has for leaves, with a sucker-shaped curl at the end! That little curled tip is generally reddish with exposure to bright sun, while the rest of the leaf remains bright and glossy. Its unique look also comes with some funny little common names such as Gollum Jade, Ogre's Ears or even Shrek's Ears.

As most other jade plants, Gollum succulent produces a thick wooden trunk when mature, which in time forms a miniature tree shape or a bonsai plant. It will grow nicely in a planter on your table, study or a balcony nook where it can be admired for its artistic structure, stand alone plant in a decorative pot or alongside some other succulents and in a combined arrangement as due to its size it doesn’t take up too much room in the interior.

Crassula Ovata ‘Gollum’ is generally easy to care for, with a reasonable degree of forgiveness for the occasional lapse. It generally requires some hours of direct bright sunlight per day and a fast-draining succulent mixture; in many regions of the country this also translates to placement inside the house and covered porch, it is widely viewed as a bringer of good luck and a popular tradition within many households across India.

Key Features

• Distinctive tubular, finger-like leaves with a curled, suction-cup tip
• Reddish tinge on leaf tips that intensifies with bright light
• Develops a thick, woody stem for a small tree-like or bonsai look over time
• Super drought tolerant - for less than often watering plants.
• Mini habit slow growth works for almost any table top & shelf surface.
• Low-maintenance and forgiving of occasional missed waterings
• Can produce small star-shaped flowers on mature plants in winter
• Popular as a gifting plant, often associated with good fortune

Care at a Glance

Product Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 × Live Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' plant
• 1 × Pot (Bare-rooted/Pot: Optional)
• Well-draining potting mix
• Basic care guide

Important Notes

• The leaves are expected to differ in color, size and shape from plant to plant.
• Some leaf drop during transit is common for succulents and the plant usually recovers within a week or two
• Don't put your plant straight in the blazing afternoon sun straight out of the box - let it adjust slowly
• Keep away from overwatering and waterlogging, especially during the monsoon season
• The red tinge to your leaf tips may disappear in low light and return to its glory in bright light. 
• They are mildly poisonous so they must be kept away from pets and small children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are my Gollum Jade's leaf tips not turning red? 

A: The red blush at the tips of the leaves only occurs under bright, direct sunlight conditions. Gollum Jade, if exposed to shady, darker conditions, will mostly remain green. Move to a brighter location receiving some hours of direct light per day. 

Q: How much water does this plant require?

A: Allow the soil to dry out entirely between waterings, about every 12-16 days based on your conditions. Water less often during winter months.

Q: Can Crassula Ovata ‘Gollum’ be kept indoors?

A: Yes, it’s suitable to be kept indoors but make sure to give it some hours of bright light in front of a south-facing or east-facing window. Under poor light, the growth is slower and leaves get longer.

Q: How quickly does the Gollum Crassula grow?

A: It's a slow growing variety so don't expect immediate changes, it just looks more established over the years and tends to grow a woody trunk. This is something the plant keepers find attractive as this allows styling in a bonsai way.

Q: Should I fertilise this plant?

A: Fertiliser is not strictly required however, during spring and summer apply a balanced liquid feed in diluted strength every 4 to 6 weeks. Don't feed during the winter resting period.

Q: Is the Gollum jade plant dangerous for my pets?

A: All crassula plants are mildly poisonous if ingested by pets, this will cause upset stomachs. Best if plant can be raised on a shelf or counter to keep away from curious pets.