The Crassula Ovata Twins: Hobbit and Gollum – A Tale of Two Succulents
Jade plants, with their thick, succulent leaves and hardy nature, are a beloved addition to many homes and gardens. But did you know that these captivating plants come in two distinct varieties? The crassula ovata Hobbit and crassula ovata Gollum may appear similar at first glance, but they possess unique characteristics that set them apart. Let’s delve into the fascinating differences between these two jade plant varieties.
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Crassula Ovata Hobbit vs Gollum
Size and Shape
The crassula ovata Hobbit tends to grow larger, reaching up to 12 inches tall and wide, while the crassula ovata Gollum typically remains more compact. The Hobbit variety boasts small, round leaves with smooth edges, while the Gollum variety features light green, crinkled leaves with a pointy end, resembling tiny trumpets.
Naming Origins
The naming of these jade plant varieties is inspired by the iconic characters from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” series. The crassula ovata Hobbit, with its brave and adventurous nature, is named after the courageous Bilbo Baggins. On the other hand, the crassula ovata Gollum, with its twisted and corrupted appearance, takes its name from the creature Gollum, who was consumed by the Ring of Power.
Flowering Habits
During the summer months, the crassula ovata Hobbit produces delicate white, star-shaped flowers, adding a touch of elegance to its already charming appearance. In contrast, the crassula ovata Gollum blooms in the spring, adorning itself with yellow blossoms that enhance its unique, twisted form.
Environmental Preferences
While both jade plant varieties thrive in bright, indirect sunlight, they have slightly different temperature and moisture preferences. The crassula ovata Hobbit prefers temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and evenly moist soil, while the crassula ovata Gollum thrives in slightly cooler temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and is a bit more drought-tolerant.
Care and Propagation
Caring for these jade plant varieties is relatively easy, but it’s important to understand their specific needs. Both the crassula ovata Hobbit and Gollum require well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent potting mix, to prevent root rot. You can also add extra gravel or sand to the potting mix and include a layer of rocks or pebbles on top to improve drainage.
Watering is crucial for these succulents. The crassula ovata Hobbit needs to be watered every 2 weeks during the spring and summer, while the crassula ovata Gollum prefers slightly drier conditions and should be watered about once a week during the growing season. Always allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilizing is generally not necessary, but if desired, use a succulent-specific fertilizer at half the recommended strength during the spring and summer when the plants are actively growing. Never fertilize when the soil is wet, as this can lead to fungal issues.
Propagation is a fun and easy way to expand your jade plant collection. Simply remove healthy leaves from the main plant and place them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist, and new plants will emerge from the leaf bases within a few weeks. You can also propagate by taking stem cuttings and allowing them to callus over before planting in soil.
For optimal growth, provide your crassula ovata Hobbit or Gollum with bright, indirect sunlight and protect them from intense direct sun, especially during the hottest part of the day. Maintain ideal temperatures between 50-75°F (10-24°C) and low to moderate humidity levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Crassula ovata Hobbit and Gollum the same?
No, both are two distinct varieties of crassula ovata. While both plants have the same upright growth habit, the crassula ovata Hobbit has darker green leaves with a smooth texture and rounded tips.
In contrast, crassula ovata Gollum has light green leaves and is creased with a pointy end. Crassula ovata Hobbit tends to grow larger than crassula ovata Gollum, reaching up to 12 inches tall and wide. Crassula ovata Gollum also has a unique appearance, resembling the shape of a trumpet.
Why is it called a Hobbit plant?
The Hobbit plant is named after the fictional character from J.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings series. The crassula ovata Hobbit has small, round leaves and an upright growth habit. This reminds people of the brave and adventurous character Bilbo Baggins.
Why is it called Gollum jade?
The Gollum Jade is also named after a character from the same series, but one with a much darker reputation. Gollum was a creature corrupted by the Ring of Power, and his crassula ovata variety has crinkled leaves and an unusual trumpet shape.
Conclusion
The crassula ovata Hobbit and Gollum are truly captivating additions to any succulent collection. While they share the same hardy jade plant lineage, their distinct characteristics make them stand out as unique and fascinating varieties.
Whether you’re drawn to the adventurous spirit of the crassula ovata Hobbit with its smooth, round leaves and delicate white flowers, or the enigmatic allure of the crassula ovata Gollum with its twisted, trumpet-like foliage and yellow blooms, these jade plants offer a touch of whimsy and intrigue to your indoor or outdoor space.
