What Are the Different Types of Dollar Plant

If you’re looking for a low maintenance, yet striking houseplant, the dollar plant (Crassula ovata) is an excellent choice. Also known as Jade plant, it’s a succulent native to South Africa that’s easy to care for and can live for decades. But did you know that there are different types of dollar plants? Here are some popular varieties and their characteristics.

Crassula Ovata ‘Hobbit’

This cultivar is named after the fictional characters from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” novels because its leaves resemble miniature hobbit feet. It has a compact and bushy growth habit, with small, round leaves that are green with red tips when exposed to sunlight. ‘Hobbit’ is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 3 feet in height, but stays much smaller in indoor pots. It prefers bright light and infrequent watering.

Crassula Ovata ‘Gollum’

Another cultivar inspired by “The Lord of the Rings,” ‘Gollum’ has elongated, tubular leaves with pointed tips that look like fingers. The leaves are also green with red edges when exposed to sunlight. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a branching habit that makes it ideal for bonsai or topiary arrangements. ‘Gollum’ tolerates lower light levels and can survive long periods of drought.

Crassula Ovata ‘Tricolor’

This cultivar is prized for its variegated foliage, which combines shades of green, cream, pink, and red. The leaves are small and round with a slightly wavy margin. ‘Tricolor’ is a slow-growing plant that stays compact and bushy, reaching about 1 foot in height. It needs bright but indirect light and moderate watering.

Crassula Ovata ‘Minima’

This cultivar is the smallest of the dollar plants, with tiny, round leaves that are green with red tips when exposed to sunlight. It grows up to 6 inches tall and wide and forms a dense mat of foliage. ‘Minima’ is an ideal plant for terrariums, fairy gardens, or as a groundcover in rock gardens. It needs bright but indirect light and infrequent watering.

Crassula Ovata ‘Giant’

As its name suggests, this cultivar is the largest of the dollar plants, with thick and fleshy leaves that can reach up to 4 inches long. The leaves are green with red edges when exposed to sunlight. ‘Giant’ has a tree-like growth habit that can reach up to 8 feet tall in its native habitat but stays much smaller in indoor pots. It needs bright but indirect light and infrequent watering.

FAQ

Are dollar plants toxic to pets?

Yes, like most succulents, dollar plants contain toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested by cats or dogs. Keep them out of reach or train your pets not to chew on them.

Do dollar plants need fertilizer?

They can benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. However, they can also thrive without it if you provide them with well-draining soil and enough light.

Can I propagate dollar plants?

Yes, dollar plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Wait until the cuttings have calloused for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil and keeping them moist but not wet. They should root in a few weeks and start producing new growth.

How often should I water my dollar plant?

Dollar plants are drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water. However, they prefer to be kept evenly moist but not wet. Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.

Why is my dollar plant dropping leaves?

There are several reasons why a dollar plant may drop leaves, including overwatering, underwatering, low light levels, or pest infestations. Check the soil moisture, light exposure, and inspect the plant for signs of pests such as mealybugs or spider mites. Adjust the care accordingly.