The ogre ear succulent, scientifically known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum,’ is a striking and unique plant that captivates with its peculiar appearance. This evergreen succulent belongs to the family Crassulaceae and originates from the eastern regions of South Africa. Its name, “ogre ear,” derives from its fleshy foliage, which resembles the elongated ears of legendary creatures in folklore tales. Arrowhead-shaped leaves can grow up to 3 feet long and have a dark green color with prominent veins, resembling the mythical ears of an ogre. The leaves are tubular and constricted at their bases, forming an intriguing trumpet-like shape with reddish tips that intensify under sunlight. With a glossy green coloration, these thick leaves also feature curved ridges.
What is an Ogre Ear Succulent?
The ogre ear succulent, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum,’ is a unique and eye-catching plant that will make a statement in any collection. With its fascinating appearance and exciting name, it’s no wonder this succulent has captured the attention of plant enthusiasts worldwide.
What sets the Ogre Ear Jade apart is its peculiar leaf shape. The leaves are tubular and elongated, resembling the ears of a fantastical creature – an ogre! This distinctive feature makes it a standout addition to your indoor or outdoor garden.
The ogre ear succulent shriveling has a captivating appearance and is relatively low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts of all levels. It thrives in bright sunlight and requires well-draining soil to prevent over-watering.
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Specifications
Botanical name: Crassula Ovata
Common names: Hobbit jade, Spoon jade, ET’s fingers, Trumpet jade.
Temperature: The Ogre Ear Succulent prefers a warm environment and is not frost-tolerant. Please protect it from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Growth Patterns: When grown indoors, the Ogre Ear Succulent can reach a height of up to 23 inches and a width of approximately 30 inches.
Water requirement: Watering is required for Ogre Ear Jade on a low to moderate basis. When the soil becomes dry (summer) or when the leaves begin to shrivel (winter).
Light requirement: Sunlight must be bright, indirect, or direct.
Mature size: It can grow up to 5 ft tall and 3 ft wide after years of outdoor cultivation. As they grow indoors, they reach a height of 6″ to 12″.
Flower: A mature spoon jade plant can produce pink flowers outdoors.
Ogre Ears vs. Gollum Jade
Ogre Ears and Gollum Jade are two popular succulent plants that add unique and striking beauty to any indoor or outdoor space. When comparing Ogre Ears vs Gollum Jade, both varieties boast distinct features that make them stand out. Ogre Ears, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum,’ is characterized by its elongated, tubular leaves resembling an ogre’s ears.
On the other hand, Gollum Jade, or Crassula ovata ‘Gollum,’ showcases thick, spoon-shaped leaves with reddish tips, giving it an exotic and captivating appearance. Whether you prefer the whimsical appeal of Ogre Ears or the alluring charm of Gollum Jade, both succulents are excellent choices to enhance your green space with their unique foliage.
How to Care for an Ogre Ear Succulent
The first step in providing proper care for your Ogre Ear Succulent is selecting the ideal location. These succulents thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Place them in a spot where they can receive ample natural light without direct exposure to harsh sun rays. A windowsill with filtered light or a well-lit porch is an excellent choice. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to take care of Ogre Ear Succulent:
Light Requirements
Succulents typically require bright, indirect sunlight. Provide them with several hours of sunlight each day by placing them near a south or west-facing window. Although they can survive in bright indirect light, their leaves might become dark green and droopy without enough light.
Temperature and Humidity
Ogre ear succulents prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24 °C). They can tolerate lower temperatures for short periods, but freezing temperatures should be avoided. Succulents generally thrive in low to moderate humidity levels. Night temperatures shouldn’t drop below 55 degrees if your plant is indoors.
Soil and Pot Selection
To ensure your Ogre Ears Jade flourishes, selecting the correct type of soil and pot is crucial. Use a well-draining succulent mix, or create your own by combining regular potting soil with perlite or sand. The best choice is a special soil mix for succulents and cacti. A pot with drainage holes is a must, as it prevents water from accumulating at the roots, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing
To keep your succulent healthy and thriving, it’s essential to fertilize it periodically. Use a balanced, liquid succulent fertilizer during the growing season. Apply it sparingly, as succulents do not require as much feeding as other plants. A monthly dose should suffice to provide the necessary nutrients.
Watering Guidelines
Watering succulents too much is a common mistake. Ogre Ear Succulents are no exception. These hardy plants prefer to dry out between waterings. Allow the soil to become dry to the touch before watering thoroughly. You can water them once every two weeks during the growing season, typically spring and summer. In contrast, reduce watering during the dormant winter months to prevent overhydration.
Repotting ogre ear succulent
Repotting your ogre ear succulent can be a delicate but gratifying task. This unique and captivating plant, also known as Shrek’s Ears, is characterized by its thick, fleshy leaves with a distinct rippled texture resembling an ogre’s ears. As it grows, you may notice that your ogre ear succulent starts to outgrow its current pot. It’s time to give your beloved plant a new home when this happens.
Firstly, choose a pot slightly larger than the current one to allow room for growth. Ensure the new pot has suitable drainage holes, as these plants are susceptible to root rot if left in standing water. Gently remove the ogre ear succulent from its old pot by carefully loosening the soil around the roots and gently pulling it out. Take this opportunity to inspect the roots for any signs of damage or disease – trimming away any unhealthy parts will promote healthier growth.
Once you have removed the plant from its old pot, check if it needs fresh soil or repot in fresh soil entirely for best results. Succulents require specific well-draining soil mixes suitable for arid conditions; you can prepare one by mixing regular garden soil with coarse sand or perlite. Position your ogre ear succulent in its new pot and fill in around the edges with fresh soil mixture until stable.
Pruning Ogre Ear Succulent
- Remove Dead or Dying Leaves: Regularly check the succulent for dead or dying leaves. Gently pluck them off using your fingers or sharp scissors or tweezers. This helps improve the plant’s appearance and prevents pest or disease issues.
- Trim Leggy Growth: If your Ogre Ear succulent becomes tall and leggy with stretched-out stems, consider pruning it to encourage a more compact form. Cut back leggy stems to a healthy joint or node using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
- Shape Maintenance: Prune the outer growth to maintain the desired shape of the succulent. This can help prevent the plant from becoming too sprawling or uneven.
Ogre Ear Succulent Propagation
- Leaf Cuttings:
- Gently twist or snip healthy leaves from the main plant. Ensure you include the entire leaf, as a partial leaf won’t propagate successfully.
- Allow the leaf cuttings to air dry for a day or two, giving them time to form calluses at the cut ends. This helps prevent rot during propagation.
- Plant the dried leaf cuttings in well-draining succulent soil, burying the calloused end. Water sparingly and keep the soil consistently moist until new growth appears.
- Be patient, as it can take several weeks to see new baby plants (pups) forming at the base of the leaves.
- Stem Cuttings:
- Cut a healthy stem from the main plant using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Cut just below a leaf node.
- Allow the stem cutting to air dry for a day or two to callus over.
- Plant the dried stem cutting in well-draining succulent soil, burying the cut end. Water sparingly and keep the soil slightly moist until roots develop.
- Offsets (Pups):
- Some succulent varieties, including many Echeveria types, produce offsets or baby plants around the base of the main plant.
- Gently separate the offset from the main plant using clean hands or tools.
- Allow the separated offset to air dry to the callus for a day or two.
- Plant the calloused offset in its pot with well-draining soil. Water lightly and provide bright, indirect light.
Note: Remember that not all succulent varieties propagate the same way, so the specific steps may vary slightly depending on the growth habits of the “Ogre’s Ear” succulent variety you’re working with. Patience is vital when propagating succulents, as the process can take time for new growth to develop.
Common Pests And Diseases of Ogre Ear Succulent
Provides you with information about common pests and diseases that can affect various succulent varieties. These pests and diseases could potentially apply to any type of succulent, including those called “Ogre’s Ear.”
Pests
- Mealybugs: Small, white, cotton-like insects that cluster in leaf axils and on stems. They feed on plant sap and can cause stunted growth and the yellowing of leaves.
- Aphids: Tiny insects that come in various colors. They feed on plant juices and can cause curling, distortion, and yellowing of the leaves.
- Spider Mites: Microscopic pests that create delicate webs on plants. They suck sap from leaves, causing yellowing, stippling, and leaf drop.
- Scale Insects: are small, immobile pests that attach to leaves and stems. They feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing, leaf drop, and a sticky substance called honeydew.
Diseases
Root Rot: Caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leading to fungal growth that damages the roots and can ultimately kill the plant.
Stem Rot: Like root rot, stem rot is caused by excess moisture. It can lead to the decay of stems, making them mushy and discolored.
Powdery Mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on leaves. It can inhibit photosynthesis and weaken the plant.
Leaf Spot: Fungal or bacterial pathogens cause circular spots or lesions on leaves, often with a distinct margin. These spots can be discolored and may lead to tissue death.
Note: By paying attention to these common issues and their solutions, you can provide better care for your succulents, promoting their health and longevity. Remember that specific care requirements may vary based on the unique characteristics of the succulent variety you’re dealing with.
Seasonal Care of Ogre Ear Succulents
Seasonal care of Ogre Ear Succulents is essential to keep these unique plants thriving and looking their best. Ogres Ear Succulents enjoy basking in bright, indirect sunlight in spring and summer. Placing them near a sunny window or in a well-lit garden will give them the necessary light to grow. However, protecting them from intense afternoon sun is important, as this can scorch their leaves. In terms of watering, Ogres Ear Succulents prefer a more moderate approach. It is usually sufficient to water them thoroughly once the top inch of soil dries out. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensuring the soil has proper drainage is essential.
As the seasons transition into fall and winter, Ogres Ear Succulents enter a period of dormancy. During this time, it’s best to reduce watering and provide them with a slightly cooler environment, around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. By adjusting their care to match the changing seasons, you can ensure that your Ogre Ear Succulents continue to thrive and remain a stunning addition to your plant collection.
Benefits of Growing an Ogre Ear Succulent
Are you looking for a low-maintenance and visually stunning addition to your plant collection? Look no further than the Ogre Ear Succulent! Beyond its captivating appearance, there are several benefits to growing this remarkable plant. Let’s explore some of them together!
Unique and Eye-Catching Appearance: The Ogre Ear Succulent’s elongated, tubular leaves that resemble ogre’s ears are a true standout in any collection. Its distinct shape and coloration add a whimsy and uniqueness to your home or office decor.
Longevity: With the proper care, Ogre Ear Succulents can have a long lifespan, providing beauty and enjoyment for years.
Air Purification: Plants are natural air purifiers, and succulents like the Ogre Ear Succulent are particularly adept at filtering toxins from the air. Additionally, they release oxygen into your home or office, which can help boost your mood and enhance productivity.
Low-Maintenance: If you’re looking for a plant that is easy to care for, the Ogre Ear Succulent is an excellent choice. It thrives in bright sunlight and prefers well-draining soil to prevent over-watering. This drought-tolerant plant will reward you with its remarkable display of foliage without demanding too much time.
Indoor Decor: Ogre Ear Succulents can thrive as houseplants, making them ideal for enhancing the interior of your home. Their distinctive appearance can serve as a conversation starter and add a natural, decorative element to your living space.
Note: By adding an Ogre Ear Succulent to your plant collection, you’re not only bringing beauty and tranquility into your space – you’re also reaping the benefits of air purification and stress relief. The benefits of growing an Ogre Ear Succulent are best realized when you provide it with the appropriate care and growing conditions, including well-draining soil, suitable lighting, and proper watering practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are succulents?
The leaves and stems of succulents are fleshy, helping them survive in dry climates by storing waterThey are typically characterized by their ability to store water in specialized tissues, such as leaves and stems. These plants come in various shapes, unique colors, and textures, making them a popular indoor and outdoor gardening choice.
Is the Ogre ear succulent toxic?
The Ogre ear succulent is not considered toxic and can be grown safely indoors or outdoors as long as it is in well-draining soil. It will require bright indirect sunlight and needs to be watered only when the soil has dried out completely. Always wear gloves when handling the plant, as its spines can cause irritation or even break the skin.
What is the scientific name for ogre ear succulent?
The scientific name for ogres ear succulent is Agave Americana var. Longifolia. This hybrid variety of agave has been selectively bred over many years to produce the distinctive elongated leaves of the ogre ear plant. It is native to Mexico and Guatemala and is a popular landscaping choice because of its attractive appearance and hardiness.
Is The Ogre Ear Jade An Outdoors Or Indoors Plant?
The Ogre Ear Jade can be kept outdoors and indoors, depending on your preference. If you keep it outdoors, ensure that you provide enough protection from direct sunlight and wind and that it has plenty of water. If you keep it indoors, place the pot in a sunny spot away from drafts or air conditioning. Additionally, the soil should always remain moist but not soggy for optimal growth.
Does ogre ears like full sun?
Yes, ogre ears do thrive in full sun! Ogre ears are tropical plants that thrive in warm and humid conditions. While they require good sunlight to grow properly, they prefer bright, indirect light rather than full sun exposure. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn or wilt, so it’s best to place ogre ears where they receive filtered or partially shaded sunlight.
How do you care for an ogre ear succulent?
The ogre ear succulent is a unique, low-maintenance plant requiring minimal care. To ensure that your succulent stays healthy, water it every 1-2 weeks, depending on how dry the soil gets. Place your succulent in an area with indirect sunlight, but avoid direct sun to prevent sunburns. You can use a natural fertilizer once a month for added nutrition and take off any dead leaves or excess stems to improve air circulation. With proper care, your ogre ear succulent will grow and thrive!
How big do ogre ear succulents get?
Plants with ogre-ear succulents can reach heights of 2 to 3 feet and spread out to a width of 9 to 12 inches. The leaves of these plants are thick, and waxy, and come in greens, brownish-greens, and greyish-blues. While the mature size may vary based on growing conditions, this large succulent will surely bring a touch of the exotic into any indoor or outdoor garden!
Is the ogre ear plant poisonous?
Yes, the ogre ear plant (Kalanchoe daigremontiana) is highly toxic. It is poisonous in all parts, and significant contact with any part of the plant can cause mild to severe irritation. It’s best to keep pets and children away from this plant; its stems and leaves should never be eaten.
Is an ogre ear a jade plant?
No, an ogre ear is not a jade plant. The jade plant (Crassula ovata) is also known as the money plant and is native to South Africa. On the other hand, an ogre ear (Asplenium scolopendrium) is an evergreen fern found in many areas around the world. Both plants have very different appearances and requirements, so choose the right one for your needs.
Conclusion
We hope you found our blog post on the ogre ear succulent, informative, and inspiring. The ogre ear succulent is a unique and visually captivating plant that can be an excellent addition to any indoor or outdoor space. Its thick and fleshy leaves, with their vibrant green color and striking texture, make it a standout feature in any collection of succulents. Whether you’re a seasoned succulent enthusiast or just beginning your plant journey, the ogre ear succulent is worth considering. This fascinating plant will thrive and bring natural beauty to your surroundings with proper care and attention. If you want to add an ogre ear succulent to your collection, visit our website at ___ to explore our selection. Happy gardening!
