How to Grow and Care for Ogre Ear Plant

The Ogre Ear Plant, also known as Gollum Jade or Finger Jade, is a unique succulent cultivar of Crassula ovata. It features tubular, green leaves with reddish, spoon-like tips that curl inward. Many find its structure reminiscent of the character Shrek’s ears, and its easy-care nature makes it a popular choice for both new and experienced gardeners.

Ogre Ear Plant Care

Light

Proper lighting is a significant factor for the Ogre Ear Plant. It thrives on at least four to six hours of bright sunlight each day, making a south or west-facing window ideal for indoor growing. While it can survive in less light, its growth may become less vigorous, and the leaves will not develop the reddish tips that appear with ample sun. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the leaves, so monitoring the plant during peak sun hours is beneficial.

Soil

This plant is highly susceptible to root rot, so a well-draining soil mix is foundational to its well-being. Use a mix formulated for cacti and succulents, which contains ingredients like perlite or sand to improve drainage and aeration. Standard potting soil is not recommended as it retains too much moisture. A pot with drainage holes is also a requirement to allow excess water to escape.

Water

Overwatering is a common issue, so the “soak and dry” method is most effective. Water the soil thoroughly only when it has completely dried out. During the active growing seasons of spring and summer, watering may be needed more frequently, about every two weeks. In the fall and winter, when the plant is dormant, watering should be reduced significantly to as little as once a month.

Temperature

This succulent prefers average household temperatures, making it well-suited for indoor cultivation. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (-6°C). In regions with cold winters, grow the plant in a container that can be brought indoors before the first frost. During its winter dormancy, it benefits from cooler indoor temperatures between 50-60°F.

Fertilizer

Fertilizing is not necessary for survival but can encourage more robust growth. If you choose to fertilize, do so only during the spring and summer growing season. A balanced houseplant fertilizer diluted to half-strength can be applied every couple of months. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter, as the plant is dormant and unabsorbed nutrients can damage the root system.

Propagating Ogre Ear Plants

Creating new Ogre Ear Plants is a straightforward process using either stem or leaf cuttings. Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to remove a healthy stem or a single tubular leaf from the parent plant. This method allows you to easily multiply your collection or share with others.

Once the cutting is taken, allow it to dry for several days. This lets the cut end form a callus, which helps prevent rot when planted. After the callus has formed, place the cutting in a pot with a well-draining soil mix. Insert the cutting just deep enough to stand upright.

After planting the callused cutting, wait a day or two before watering. Use the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Roots will typically begin to form within a few weeks, and new growth will emerge, signaling a successful propagation.

Common Problems and Solutions

One of the most frequent issues is mushy or yellowing leaves, which is almost always a sign of overwatering and potential root rot. To address this, cease watering and check the roots. If they are dark and soft, allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.

Another common problem is leggy growth, where stems become stretched with wide gaps between the leaves. This condition, known as etiolation, is caused by insufficient sunlight. The solution is to move the plant to a location where it can receive several hours of bright sunlight each day.

Mealybugs and scale insects are common pests that feed on the plant’s sap, causing leaves to yellow and dry out. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses. They can be removed with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or treated with an insecticidal soap.

Ogre Ear Plant Toxicity

All parts of the Ogre Ear Plant are toxic to pets, including cats, dogs, and horses. If ingested, it can cause symptoms such as vomiting and lethargy in animals. The plant is also mildly toxic to humans if consumed. It should be kept out of reach of pets and small children.