Hobbit Jade Plant
Crassula ovata 'Hobbit'
Hobbit
About this plant
Crassula ovata 'Hobbit' is a popular succulent known for its thick, tubular leaves with curled edges that resemble little hooks or 'hobbit feet.' It has a compact, shrubby form and is often grown as a houseplant or bonsai. This plant is appreciated for its unique leaf shape and easy care.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Crassula
- Family
- Crassulaceae
- Higher classification
- Order Saxifragales
- Plant type
- Succulent
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- South Africa, Mozambique
- Distribution
- Widely cultivated worldwide as a houseplant; native to South Africa and Mozambique.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Indoor, Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Low
- Minimum
- 5 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 18-24 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 9-11
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5
- Soil type
- well-draining succulent or cactus mix
Watering. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in water to prevent root rot. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Fertilizing. Feed with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter when the plant rests.
Crassula ovata 'Hobbit' is a hardy succulent that thrives with minimal care. It prefers bright light and well-draining soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so allow the soil to dry between waterings. It grows slowly and needs occasional pruning to maintain shape.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Cuttings, Division
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- winter
Thick, fleshy, tubular leaves with curled edges; small star-shaped white or pink flowers in winter; compact shrub form.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Mildly toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Mildly toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
Mildly toxic if ingested; can cause stomach upset in pets and humans. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Sap or latex, Skin contact
- Pollen level
- None
Crassula ovata 'Hobbit' is generally safe and unlikely to cause allergies. However, some people with sensitive skin might experience mild irritation if they touch the plant's sap. To avoid any reaction, it's best to handle the plant gently and wash your hands afterward.
Common problems
Overwatering can lead to root rot and yellowing leaves. Insufficient light may cause leggy growth. Pests like mealybugs can occasionally appear but are easy to manage.
Uses
Primarily grown as an ornamental houseplant or bonsai due to its unique leaf shape and easy care. It can also be used in succulent gardens and containers.
Notes
Prune to shape and remove any dead or leggy growth. Repot every 2-3 years to refresh soil and allow room for growth. Sensitive to frost; protect from freezing temperatures.