Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’: The Quirky Jade with Character
If there’s one plant that adds a dash of whimsy to my succulent collection, it’s Crassula ovata ‘Gollum.’ With its quirky, tubular leaves that resemble little fingers, it’s like having a tiny green creature right in my garden. Every time I look at it, I can’t help but chuckle at its unique shape. It’s a fun reminder that plants can have personality too!
I’ll never forget the day I brought my first Gollum jade home. I was at a local plant shop, surrounded by a sea of succulents, but this one caught my eye immediately. The way those leaves curled and twisted was just too charming to resist. I could already envision it becoming the star of my succulent shelf. After a few minutes of convincing myself that I absolutely needed it, I walked away with my new plant buddy, and I’ve been smitten ever since.
A Unique Look for a Unique Plant
The Gollum jade is a striking variant of the traditional jade plant. Its leaves, which can grow up to 5 centimetres long, are thick, glossy, and shaped like the fingers of a quirky little monster. The tips often take on a reddish hue when exposed to plenty of sunlight, giving it an added pop of colour. I love how it looks different throughout the seasons—sometimes bright and vibrant, sometimes more muted, depending on the light.
Taking care of this fun succulent isn’t difficult, but it does have its quirks. Here are some of the best practices I’ve learned to keep my Gollum thriving:
- Sunshine Lover: Gollum jade loves bright, indirect sunlight. I’ve placed mine in a south-facing window where it gets plenty of light throughout the day. If you notice the leaves starting to stretch out, it’s a sign your plant might need a little more sun!
- Water Wisely: Like most succulents, overwatering is the enemy. I’ve learned to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Typically, I water mine every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season and reduce watering during its dormant winter months. It’s like a little hydration routine!
- Soil Matters: Good drainage is key. I use a cactus mix that allows water to flow freely, helping to prevent root rot. Sometimes I mix in a bit of perlite or sand for extra drainage—my Gollum jade seems to appreciate it!
- Temperature Tactics: This succulent thrives in warmer temperatures, ideally between 20°C and 25°C. I make sure to keep it away from cold drafts or frost, especially during winter. If the temperature drops too low, my little Gollum might get a bit grumpy!
Fighting Off Pests
While Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’ is generally pest-resistant, I’ve had a few encounters with mealybugs and aphids. A quick spray of insecticidal soap usually does the trick, and I always keep a close eye on any new plants I introduce to my collection. Prevention is better than cure, right?
The Joy of Gollum
One of my favourite moments with my Gollum jade happened during a small get-together at my place. A friend spotted it on my shelf and exclaimed, “What is that? It looks like a little monster!” We spent the next few minutes making silly faces and imitating Gollum from The Lord of the Rings, which turned into a full-blown laugh fest. It’s these little moments that make gardening so rewarding.
If you’re looking for a succulent that’s both charming and low-maintenance, Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’ is the way to go. Its unique appearance and playful personality can brighten any space. So here’s to the quirky Gollum jade! May it bring joy and laughter to your garden. Happy gardening!