Do you love succulents? If yes, you will probably like the Crassula Ovata Hobbit, also known as a Hobbit Jade Plant! Indeed, this tubular plant has everything you look for in these types of plants. Besides being aesthetically pleasing and displaying lush and deep green foliage, it is relatively easy to grow. You can add it as a houseplant or grow it outdoors (if you live in a suitable USDA hardiness zone).
But if you want to learn more about this fascinating plant, keep reading! We collected everything you must know about it in this essential guide!
| Botanical Name | Crassula ovata “Hobbit” |
| Common Name | Hobbit Fingers, Hobbit Jade plant, or Organ Pipe Jade |
| Plant Type | Perennial |
| Flower Color | This succulent will display sets of white or light pink star-shaped flowers with adequate lighting. |
| Size When Mature | Up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide |
| Bloom Time | Late Summer |
| Sun Requirements | Example: Full/ Partial Sun |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Bright Indirect Light or Partial Sun |
| Soil PH Range | Between 6.0 and 7.0 |
| Soil Type | Well-draining, airy, and fertile |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Native Area | Madagascar and Mediterrenean Africa |
What you Need to Know About Crassula Ovata Hobbit
The name Crassula Ovata Hobbit might ring a bell. After all, this Jade plant takes its name from the character from Tolkien’s books. And for good reasons: indeed, its foliage is tubular and resembles fingers (especially when the plant gets proper lighting and the tips of the leaves turn red, just like nails).
This plant performs well as a houseplant but is toxic to pets, so keep it away from your animal friends! But aside from that, this succulent is not as challenging to grow as you expect.
Plus, with the proper care, it will delight you with plenty of star-shaped flowers in late summer.
How to Care for Crassula Ovata Hobbit
The fact that a plant is low-maintenance doesn’t need you don’t have to pay attention to its needs and requirements. Even if they might be simple, you should know about them. But, don’t worry, we want to help you! Here’s everything you need to know about growing for a thriving Crassula Ovata Hobbit.
Light
Crassula Ovata Hobbit does best with plenty of indirect light. However, some exposure to the sun’s rays will not harm it. For this reason, we recommend you place it next to a bright window, better if South or East-facing.
Of course, you can also grow it outdoors, but you may have to pay attention to how much sunlight hits your plants: too much might cause discoloration (and other issues).
Don’t forget to rotate your plant to ensure an even growth pattern.
Water and Soil Needs
Succulents usually do not need much water. And the Hobbit Jade plant is not an exception. So, only water it when the soil feels dry (stick a finger on it to prevent overwatering, which may kill it).
For best results, use a well-draining potting mix: you can buy one suitable for cacti or make yours by combining perlite and sand. You may want to pay attention to the pH. While it is not a requirement, your Crassula Ovata Hobbit will do better at levels between 6.0 and 7.0.
Temperature Requirements
These succulents are native to Africa. So, as you may expect, they love warmth. Also, they prefer dry climates, so you do not have to worry about humidity. If you can, place them where the temperature stays stable.
Usually, Crassula Ovata Hobbit does best between 65 and 85°F. While the plant may survive even in colder conditions, avoid exposing it to low temperatures for too long.
Fertilizer
Crassula Ovata is the ideal plant for beginner gardeners and people who do not want to spend too much time caring for their houseplants. Indeed, this plant doesn’t need fertilizer. Still, if you need to boost its growth, consider adding a liquid product (dilute it to half strength to prevent problems) in the spring and summer.
Common Diseases
Crassula Ovata Hobbit isn’t susceptible to many diseases. However, it will suffer if you overwater it: which can kill the plant fast. But if you follow a regular watering schedule (and do not give your plant too much moisture), you shouldn’t have issues.
Pests aren’t common but can attack your plant if you grow them outdoors. Mealybugs and scales love Crassula Hobbit. If you notice something off with your plant, take prompt action to prevent an infestation. In the early stages, it is best to manually remove the bugs. Indeed, it is always best to avoid using pesticides or spraying products on your succulents: too much moisture may cause rotting.