Gollum Jade Planting, Care, & Propagation Guide

Welcome to the world of Gollum Jade, a unique and captivating succulent that is sure to add a touch of whimsy to your indoor garden. With its elongated, tubular leaves that resemble the fingers of the fictional character Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings,” this plant is a true conversation starter.

Also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum,’ this succulent is not only visually striking but also relatively easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for both experienced gardeners and beginners alike. In this article, we will explore the fascinating characteristics of Gollum Jade, provide essential tips on how to grow and care for this plant, and offer creative ideas on how to incorporate it into your home decor. So, let’s dive in and discover the enchanting world of Gollum Jade!

What is a Gollum Jade?

The Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a unique and fascinating succulent plant that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a cultivar of the popular Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) and is named after the character Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” due to its distinctive tubular leaves that resemble Gollum’s fingers.

The Gollum Jade has thick, fleshy leaves that are elongated and tubular in shape, with a narrow opening at the tip. The leaves are usually a vibrant green color, but they can develop red or yellow tinges when exposed to direct sunlight or during periods of stress. The leaves are smooth and glossy, giving the plant an attractive and unique appearance. This succulent can grow up to 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) in height, but it is generally slow-growing. It has a shrubby, bush-like growth habit with thick, woody stems that become more prominent as the plant matures.

The Gollum Jade may also produce small, star-shaped pink or white flowers during the winter months, although flowering is not as common as with other Crassula varieties. One of the reasons why the Gollum Jade is a popular houseplant is its ability to thrive in indoor conditions. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate periods of neglect, making it suitable for beginners. This succulent prefers bright, indirect light but can adapt to lower light conditions.

It is important to avoid overwatering as the Gollum Jade is susceptible to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings and provide good drainage. Overall, the Gollum Jade is an intriguing and visually appealing succulent that can add a touch of uniqueness to any indoor plant collection. Its unusual leaf shape and easy-care nature make it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts.

Where is Gollum Jade native?

Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa. It is a cultivar of the common Jade Plant (Crassula ovata) and is named after the character Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings.”

In terms of invasiveness, Gollum Jade is not considered invasive. It is primarily grown as a houseplant or in containers, where it remains relatively contained. However, it is always important to prevent any plant from escaping into natural areas, as they can potentially become invasive and disrupt native ecosystems. If you live in an area where Gollum Jade can survive outdoors, it is recommended to grow it in containers or take necessary precautions to prevent it from spreading unintentionally.

How to grow Gollum Jade indoors

Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a unique and interesting succulent that can be grown indoors. Here is a care guide to help you successfully grow Gollum Jade as a houseplant:

1. Light requirements: Gollum Jade thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Place your plant near a window that receives several hours of sunlight each day. However, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
2. Temperature: Gollum Jade prefers average room temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Protect it from extreme temperature fluctuations and cold drafts, as they can damage the plant.
3. Watering: Succulents, including Gollum Jade, have low water requirements. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. When watering, thoroughly saturate the soil and let any excess water drain away. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. In winter, reduce watering frequency as the plant enters a dormant phase.
4. Soil: Gollum Jade requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots. Use a cactus or succulent-specific potting mix or create your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
5. Fertilization: Feed your Gollum Jade with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for succulents. During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize once a month. In winter, when the plant is dormant, avoid fertilization.
6. Pruning: Gollum Jade has unique tubular leaves that can grow quite long. If you prefer a more compact appearance, you can prune the plant by cutting back the longer stems. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and make cuts just above a leaf node to encourage bushier growth.
7. Propagation: Gollum Jade can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem, let it dry for a few days to form a callus, and then plant it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until new roots develop.
8. Pests and diseases: Gollum Jade is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so be cautious with watering. Occasionally, you may encounter common succulent pests like mealybugs or spider mites. If you notice any infestation, treat it promptly with an appropriate insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Remember, Gollum Jade is a slow-growing plant, so be patient with its growth. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy this unique succulent as a beautiful houseplant.

How to grow Gollum Jade outdoors

Gollum Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’) is a unique and fascinating succulent that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. If you want to grow Gollum Jade outdoors, here is a care guide to help you:

1. Climate: Gollum Jade thrives in warm and dry climates. It is native to South Africa, so it prefers temperatures between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). It can tolerate mild frost but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures.
2. Sunlight: Gollum Jade requires full sun to partial shade. Place it in an area where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you live in a very hot climate, provide some afternoon shade to prevent leaf burn.
3. Soil: Well-draining soil is crucial for Gollum Jade. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix, or create your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
4. Watering: Gollum Jade is a succulent, so it has low water requirements. Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot. In summer, water once every 1-2 weeks, and reduce watering frequency in winter.
5. Fertilizer: Gollum Jade is not a heavy feeder, but it benefits from occasional fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, and apply it once every 2-4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant is dormant.
6. Pruning: Gollum Jade has unique tubular leaves that can grow quite long. If you prefer a more compact and bushy appearance, you can prune the plant by pinching off the tips of the branches. This will encourage branching and create a fuller plant.
7. Pests and Diseases: Gollum Jade is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common succulent pests like mealybugs and spider mites. If you notice any infestation, treat it promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
8. Propagation: Gollum Jade can be easily propagated through stem or leaf cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist until new roots develop.
9. Winter Care: If you live in a region with freezing temperatures, it is best to bring your Gollum Jade indoors during winter. Place it in a bright location near a window and reduce watering frequency to prevent overwatering in the dormant season.

Remember, Gollum Jade is a slow-growing plant, so be patient and give it time to establish and grow. With proper care and attention, your Gollum Jade will thrive and become a beautiful addition to your outdoor garden.

How to grow Gollum Jade in pots

Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a unique and interesting succulent that makes a great addition to any indoor garden. Here is a care guide to help you successfully grow Gollum Jade in pots:

1. Light requirements: Gollum Jade thrives in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a south or west-facing window where it can receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day. However, be cautious of intense, direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
2. Temperature: Gollum Jade prefers average room temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Protect the plant from extreme temperature fluctuations and keep it away from drafts or cold windows during winter.
3. Watering: Succulents, including Gollum Jade, are drought-tolerant plants. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil, and if it feels dry, it’s time to water. When watering, thoroughly saturate the soil, but ensure that excess water drains out of the pot. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
4. Soil: Gollum Jade requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. Use a commercial succulent or cactus potting mix, or create your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage.
5. Fertilizer: Feed your Gollum Jade once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during winter when the plant is dormant.
6. Pruning: Gollum Jade has unique tubular leaves that can elongate and become leggy over time. To maintain a compact and bushy shape, prune back any elongated or damaged stems using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. You can also propagate the pruned stems to create new plants.
7. Propagation: Gollum Jade is easily propagated through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem below a leaf node and allow the cutting to dry for a few days until the cut end forms a callus. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots develop.
8. Pests and diseases: Gollum Jade is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s crucial to ensure proper drainage. Occasionally, you may encounter mealybugs or spider mites. If so, treat them with a mild insecticidal soap or wipe them off the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.

Remember, Gollum Jade is a slow-growing plant, so be patient and avoid over-caring for it. With the right conditions and minimal maintenance, your Gollum Jade will thrive and add a unique touch to your indoor garden.

When does Gollum Jade bloom?

Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a succulent plant that is primarily grown for its unique foliage rather than its flowers. However, it can produce small, star-shaped, white or pink flowers under certain conditions.

In its natural habitat, Gollum Jade blooms during the late winter or early spring. However, when grown as a houseplant, it may not flower as readily. The flowering of Gollum Jade is influenced by various factors such as age, light conditions, temperature, and overall plant health.

To encourage blooming, provide your Gollum Jade with bright indirect light for at least 6-8 hours a day. A southern or western-facing window is usually ideal. Additionally, ensure that the plant is receiving adequate warmth, as temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) are generally suitable.

Proper care, including regular watering and well-draining soil, will also contribute to the overall health of the plant and increase the chances of blooming. However, it’s important to note that not all Gollum Jade plants will produce flowers, and some may only bloom sporadically.

If your Gollum Jade does bloom, enjoy the delicate flowers, but remember that the main attraction of this plant is its unique tubular leaves, which resemble the fingers of the fictional character Gollum from “The Lord of the Rings.”

Propagation guide for Gollum Jade

To propagate Gollum Jade (Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’), you have a few options:

1. Stem Cuttings: Take a stem cutting from a healthy Gollum Jade plant. Make sure the cutting is about 3-4 inches long and has a few sets of leaves. Allow the cutting to dry and callus for a day or two. Then, dip the cut end in rooting hormone (optional) and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water lightly and place the cutting in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks.
2. Leaf Cuttings: Gollum Jade can also be propagated from individual leaves. Gently twist off a healthy leaf from the main plant, making sure to include the base where it attaches to the stem. Allow the leaf to dry and callus for a day or two. Then, place the leaf on top of a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that the base of the leaf makes contact with the soil. Water lightly and place the pot in a warm, bright location. Mist the leaf occasionally to provide some humidity. After a few weeks, small plantlets should start to emerge from the base of the leaf. Once these plantlets have developed roots, they can be carefully separated and potted individually.
3. Offsets: Gollum Jade occasionally produces offsets, which are small plants that grow from the base of the main plant. These can be gently separated from the parent plant and potted individually. Ensure that each offset has some roots attached before planting it in a well-draining potting mix.

Regardless of the propagation method you choose, it’s important to provide the newly propagated plants with proper care. Place them in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the tender new growth. Water the plants sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Once the new plants have established roots and started growing, you can gradually increase the amount of water and light they receive.

Common pests and diseases

The Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a succulent plant that is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are a few common issues that may affect this plant:

1. Mealybugs: These small, white, cotton-like insects can infest Gollum Jade plants, particularly in the crevices of the leaves. They suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting. To control mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them manually or apply insecticidal soap.
2. Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To treat scale insects, you can use a soft brush or cloth dipped in soapy water to remove them or apply horticultural oil.
3. Root rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot in Gollum Jade plants. This fungal disease causes the roots to become mushy and black, leading to wilting and eventual death of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil dries out between waterings and use a well-draining potting mix.
4. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves of Gollum Jade. These spots may enlarge and turn brown or black, leading to leaf drop. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. If leaf spot occurs, remove and destroy the affected leaves and apply a fungicide if necessary.

It’s important to regularly inspect your Gollum Jade plant for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to control them. Proper care, including providing adequate light, well-draining soil, and avoiding overwatering, can help keep your plant healthy and less susceptible to these issues.

Facts about Gollum Jades

Gollum Jade, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a unique and fascinating succulent plant. Here are some interesting facts about Gollum Jade:

1. Origin: Gollum Jade is native to South Africa and belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is named after the character Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” due to its unusual tubular leaves resembling Gollum’s fingers.
2. Leaf Shape: One of the most distinctive features of Gollum Jade is its elongated, tubular leaves with a narrow opening at the end. The leaves can grow up to 2-3 inches long and have a green color with red tips when exposed to direct sunlight.
3. Growth Habit: Gollum Jade is a slow-growing succulent that can reach a height of about 1-2 feet. It has a shrubby, bush-like growth habit, with thick stems that become woody as the plant matures.
4. Easy to Care for: Gollum Jade is a popular houseplant choice because it is relatively low-maintenance. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. It is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering, making it suitable for forgetful or busy plant owners.
5. Propagation: Gollum Jade can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem, allow it to callus for a few days, and then plant it in well-draining soil. The cuttings root quickly, and new plants can be grown from them.
6. Succulent Adaptations: Like other succulents, Gollum Jade has adaptations that help it survive in arid conditions. It stores water in its fleshy leaves, allowing it to withstand periods of drought. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
7. Air Purifying Qualities: Gollum Jade, like many other houseplants, has air-purifying qualities. It can help remove toxins from the air, improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier living environment.
8. Symbolism: In some cultures, Gollum Jade is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It is often given as a gift to wish someone success in their endeavors or to bring positive energy to a new home or office space.

Remember, while Gollum Jade is generally easy to care for, each plant has its own specific needs. It’s always a good idea to research and understand the specific care requirements of any plant you bring into your home.