ET’s Fingers (Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’ or ‘Hobbit’) is a distinctive succulent prized for its unusual appearance. Its tubular, elongated leaves feature a flared, trumpet-like tip, often with a reddish hue. Native to South Africa, this jade plant cultivar offers straightforward care, making it appealing for all enthusiasts. Its striking form adds whimsical charm to any indoor collection.
Caring for Your ET’s Fingers Plant
Light
ET’s Fingers thrive with abundant bright light, ideally six hours of direct sunlight daily. Consistent light encourages compact growth and vibrant red tips. Insufficient light leads to leggy, stretched-out growth and diminished coloration. Indoors, a south or west-facing window is suitable, but intense afternoon sun may require protection from scorching.
Water
Water ET’s Fingers using a “soak and dry” method, allowing soil to dry completely between sessions. Overwatering is a common pitfall, quickly leading to root rot. Ensure excess water drains freely, preventing soggy conditions. Reduce watering frequency in cooler winter months as needs decrease.
Soil
Well-draining soil is paramount, preventing waterlogging and promoting robust root development. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended for necessary drainage. If using standard potting mix, amend it with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to enhance drainage. This gritty composition mimics their natural arid environment.
Temperature and Humidity
These plants prefer average room temperatures (65-75°F / 18-24°C). Protect them from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as they are not frost-hardy. ET’s Fingers are well-suited to drier indoor air and do not require high humidity. Misting is generally not required.
Fertilizer
A light feeding during the active growing season (spring and summer) can support vigorous development. Use a balanced liquid succulent fertilizer, diluted to half or quarter strength. Avoid fertilizer in fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilizing can harm the plant by causing salt buildup.
Propagating ET’s Fingers
Propagating ET’s Fingers is straightforward, typically done through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy 2-3 inch segment with a few leaves. Allow the cut end to callus for several days to prevent rot. Once callused, insert the cutting into well-draining succulent potting mix.
Leaf cuttings can also be used, though they take longer to root. Gently twist a healthy leaf from the main stem, ensuring the entire base is intact, then let it callus. Lay the callused leaf on moist, well-draining soil. Keep the soil lightly moist; roots and small plantlets should emerge within weeks to months. Once new growth and roots are established, care for them as mature specimens.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Wrinkled or shriveled leaves typically indicate underwatering. Fleshy leaves store water; insufficient moisture causes them to deflate and wrinkle. A thorough watering should rehydrate the plant, plumping leaves within a day or two.
Soft, mushy, or yellowing leaves and stems often signal overwatering and potential root rot. Soil remaining too wet deprives roots of oxygen, leading to decay. If these symptoms appear, allow the soil to dry completely before watering again, ensuring adequate drainage.
Leggy growth (elongated stems with widely spaced leaves) indicates insufficient light. The plant stretches for light, resulting in a sparse appearance. Move the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight for compact, robust growth.
Lack of characteristic red tips also points to inadequate light. Vibrant coloration is a response to ample sunlight. Increasing light intensity brings out these distinctive red hues.
Common succulent pests like mealybugs and spider mites can affect ET’s Fingers. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cotton-like masses in leaf crevices. Spider mites are tiny and cause fine webbing and stippling on leaves. Address pests by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or applying insecticidal soap. Regular inspection aids early detection and treatment.