The Coral Jade Plant (Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’ or ‘Hobbit’) is a succulent. Its tubular, finger-like leaves, often tipped with reddish hues, give it a sculptural appearance. This captivating form and relatively low maintenance make it a popular indoor choice for both seasoned enthusiasts and new plant owners.
Understanding the Coral Jade Plant
The Coral Jade Plant, a Crassula ovata cultivar from South Africa, is a succulent, storing water in its fleshy parts. ‘Gollum’ and ‘Hobbit’ are distinguished by their unique leaf structures: ‘Gollum’ has elongated, tubular leaves with a puckered tip, while ‘Hobbit’ leaves are more curled, resembling a spoon. Both develop vibrant reddish tips in sufficient sunlight.
Coral Jade Plant Care
Light Needs
Coral Jade Plants thrive in bright light, ideally 4 to 6 hours of sun daily. A south or west-facing window is suitable indoors. Direct sunlight intensifies reddish coloration on leaf tips, but harsh midday sun may lead to scorching. Insufficient light causes leggy growth as the plant stretches for illumination.
Watering Practices
Coral Jade Plants prefer a “soak and dry” watering method, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering is a common cause of root rot. To check, insert a finger an inch or two deep; if dry, it’s time to water. Adjust frequency seasonally, watering less in dormant winter months than in active spring and summer.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial for Coral Jade Plants to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is recommended for its quick drainage. These mixes typically contain coarse sand, perlite, or pumice, ensuring proper aeration and preventing moisture retention. Standard potting soil is unsuitable as it retains too much moisture for these arid-adapted plants.
Temperature and Humidity
Coral Jade Plants prefer average room temperatures, typically ranging from 15-24 degrees Celsius (59-75 degrees Fahrenheit). They are tolerant of normal household humidity levels, generally between 40-60%. While they can withstand cooler temperatures down to 10 degrees Celsius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) in winter, prolonged exposure to temperatures below this, especially frost, can be damaging. Maintaining consistent temperatures and avoiding drafts helps ensure the plant’s well-being.
Fertilizing
Coral Jade Plants do not require frequent fertilization. During their active growing season (spring and summer), they benefit from a diluted succulent fertilizer applied about once a month. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can harm the plant and cause root burn. Fertilizing is not necessary during the dormant period in fall and winter.
Pruning for Shape and Health
Pruning maintains the Coral Jade Plant’s shape and encourages bushier growth. This involves removing leggy stems or trimming branches for a compact form. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts, minimizing stress. Make cuts just above a leaf node or scar, as new growth typically emerges there.
Propagating Coral Jade Plants
Propagating Coral Jade Plants is straightforward, commonly achieved through stem or leaf cuttings.
Stem Cuttings
Select a healthy segment at least three inches long and make a clean cut with sterile tools. Allow the severed end to dry and form a callus for several days; this prevents rot when planted. Once callused, plant the cutting in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix, placing it in bright, indirect sunlight.
Leaf Propagation
Gently twist a healthy leaf from the stem, ensuring a clean pull. Like stem cuttings, allow the leaf to callus for a few days before placing it on or lightly pressing into well-draining soil. Water sparingly until roots and new growth appear, which can take several weeks. Patience is key, as new plantlets emerge from the callused end.
Addressing Common Coral Jade Plant Issues
Common issues with Coral Jade Plants indicate a need for care adjustment.
Overwatering
Symptoms include mushy stems, yellowing leaves, or root rot. Reduce watering frequency, ensuring soil dries completely. In severe cases, repot into fresh, well-draining soil after trimming rotted roots.
Underwatering
Leaves may shrivel, wrinkle, or discolor. Increase watering slightly, ensuring thorough saturation.
Pests
Mealybugs and spider mites appear as white, cottony masses or fine webbing. Address them by wiping with rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap.
Insufficient Light
Leggy growth (stretched stems with sparse leaves) or lack of vibrant reddish leaf tips indicates inadequate light. Move the plant to a brighter location (e.g., south or west-facing window) and prune elongated stems for compact growth.