What is the Origin of Gollum Plant

The Gollum plant is a popular succulent that is often grown indoors. Its unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature make it a great choice for novice plant enthusiasts. But have you ever wondered where this plant came from? In this article, we will explore the origin of the Gollum plant and how it has become a popular houseplant.

The Origin of the Gollum Plant

The Gollum plant, also known as Crassula ovata ‘Gollum’, is a succulent that belongs to the Crassulaceae family. Its origin can be traced back to South Africa, where it grows in rocky outcroppings and dry riverbeds. The Gollum plant is a cultivar of the Jade plant (Crassula ovata), which is also native to South Africa.

The Gollum plant was first discovered in the early 1970s by a horticulturist named Mr. Harry Mays. He found a mutation in his Jade plant, which resulted in the formation of tubular leaves with red tips. He named this new cultivar after the character Gollum from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” due to its unique and peculiar appearance.

The Characteristics of the Gollum Plant

The Gollum plant is a small, slow-growing succulent that has tubular leaves with red tips. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, which helps it to store water during dry periods. The plant can grow up to three feet tall, but it usually stays around two feet tall when grown indoors. It produces small white or pink flowers in the late winter or early spring.

The Gollum plant is easy to care for and can thrive in most indoor environments. It prefers bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. It only needs to be watered when the soil is completely dry, which is usually once every two weeks. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s important to be careful not to overwater this plant.

How the Gollum Plant Became a Popular Houseplant

The Gollum plant’s unique appearance and easy-to-care-for nature have made it a popular houseplant in recent years. Its interesting shape and color make it a great addition to any indoor space. It’s also low-maintenance, which makes it a perfect plant for busy people or those who don’t have a lot of gardening experience.

The Gollum plant is widely available at nurseries and garden centers, and it’s also easy to find online. Many plant enthusiasts have started collecting different cultivars of the Jade plant, including the Gollum plant, which has contributed to its popularity.

FAQ

How often should I water my Gollum plant?

You should only water your Gollum plant when the soil is completely dry. This is usually once every two weeks, but it may vary depending on the conditions in your home.

Can I grow my Gollum plant outside?

The Gollum plant can be grown outside in warmer climates, but it prefers well-draining soil and bright, indirect light. It’s important to protect it from frost and extreme temperatures.

How do I propagate my Gollum plant?

The Gollum plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Simply cut off a stem or leaf from the main plant and allow it to dry for a few days. Then, place it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until it establishes roots.