Description Crassula 'Gollum' - Gollum Jade Care Guide FAQ/Common Issues Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' Jade, also called Gollum Jade, is a succulent in the Crassulaceae family native to the rocky hillsides of South Africa and Mozambique. It evolved to store water in its thick leaves and survive extended dry periods. It tolerates drought well when grown indoors or outdoors. The plant is recognizable by its tubular, finger-like leaves that curl into trumpet shapes with sunken red-tinged tips. Under bright light, these tips deepen to red or yellow-green, creating a two-tone effect. Crassula 'Gollum' grows upright and tree-like with a clustering habit that resembles a miniature bonsai, even in a compact 4-inch pot. In late autumn or winter, mature plants produce clusters of tiny star-shaped flowers in pale pink to white. Blooming is triggered by cooler night temperatures and reduced watering during the colder months. The flowers are lightly fragrant and appear once the seasonal conditions shift toward dormancy. Crassula 'Gollum' grows well on sunny windowsills, desks, and shelves indoors, and it grows outdoors year-round in warm zones. A heavy pot prevents tipping as the plant develops deep roots and its upright structure matures. Keep it away from pets and small children, as the sap can cause skin and paw irritation. You can leave it up to ten days without water. Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' Jade grows well in bright indirect light to full direct sun, though intense south-facing sun during summer can scorch the leaves. Water it deeply every 2-3 weeks in summer and once a month or less in winter, always letting soil dry completely between waterings. Crassula 'Gollum' does best in a fast-draining cactus and succulent mix blended with perlite for extra drainage and root health. It prefers temperatures between 65-80°F and should be protected from frost below 25°F. Crassula 'Gollum' is a slow to moderate grower, gaining a few inches per year, and benefits from diluted balanced fertilizer once in spring and once in summer. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, tolerating brief dips to around 25°F. It grows outdoors year-round in California, Florida, Hawaii, Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Louisiana, Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, and coastal Oregon. It can also grow outside in parts of Oregon, Washington, North Carolina, Arkansas, Tennessee, and central Texas with light frost protection during the coldest nights. Q: How often should I water Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' Jade? A: Every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. In winter, cut back to once a month or less. Q: What window direction works best for this plant? A: Crassula Ovata 'Gollum' Jade performs well in east or west-facing windows where it receives several hours of direct morning or afternoon sun. South-facing windows work if you filter the harshest afternoon rays during summer to prevent leaf scorch. Q: Is Crassula 'Gollum' safe around cats and dogs? A: No, the sap can cause skin and paw irritation. Keep it on a high shelf well out of reach of pets and small children. Q: How fast does it grow? A: Crassula 'Gollum' adds only a few inches per year, making it suitable for small spaces and long-term container growing. Q: Can Gollum Jade be propagated at home? A: Yes, it propagates easily from stem or leaf cuttings. Let the cut end callous for a day or two, then place it in dry succulent soil and water lightly once roots begin to form. Q: What happens if this plant doesn't get enough light? A: Growth slows and the signature red leaf tips may fade. Supplementing with a grow light helps maintain color and appearance.
