Ogre Ear Succulent (Crassula Ovata Gollum) is a popular houseplant and succulent that is easy to care for.
It has thick, fleshy leaves that are shaped like ears, hence its common name. It is also now known by its new nickname Shrek Ear Succulent, after the popular animated movie character.
The leaves have a rich green tint and might be white or yellow variegated. This succulent is indigenous to South Africa and thrives in rocky, arid environments.
Ogre Ear Succulent Care
This plant tolerates neglect and is very simple to care for.
Ogre Ear is an excellent option if you’re searching for an easy succulent. It can thrive indoors or outdoors with minimal watering. It is ideal for novices or people who don’t have much time to devote to plant maintenance.
Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your ogre ear succulent.
How Much Light Does An Ogre Ear Succulent Need?
When it comes to light, the ogre ear is surprisingly tolerant. It can handle bright sun as well as low light, although it will grow slower in lower light conditions.
If you’re growing your plant indoors, a spot near a sunny window is ideal. Just be sure to protect it from drafts, which can cause the leaves to drop.
Outdoors, the ogre ear can tolerate full sun or partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, it’s best to protect your plant from the midday sun to prevent leaf scorch. In colder climates, some morning sun is essential to help the plant stay compact and healthy.
How Much Sun Does An Ogre Ear Succulent Need?
Ideally, an ogre ear succulent should receive approximately 4-6 hours of sun per day.
If possible, it is best to place the plant in an area where it will receive morning sun and afternoon shade. This will help prevent the leaves from burning or drying out. During the winter months, you may need to provide additional light with a grow light or fluorescent lamp.
How Much Water Does An Ogre Ear Succulent Need?
These succulents are very drought tolerant and only need to be watered every 1-2 weeks, allowing the soil to completely dry out in between watering. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so be sure to err on the side of too little rather than too much.
Here are a few tips for watering your Ogre Ear succulents:
- Water deeply, but less often. It’s better to give your plants a good soaking once a week than to water them lightly every day. Let the water run through until it comes out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot, then discard any additional water that has collected in the pot’s tray.
- Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering. Don’t let your succulents sit in soggy soil, as this can lead to root rot.
- If you’re unsure whether or not your succulents need water, check the soil before watering. If it’s dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
- Be careful not to overwater your succulents. These plants are susceptible to rot, so it’s important to err on the side of too little rather than too much water.
Additionally, it is recommended to use terracotta or unglazed ceramic pots with drainage holes so the soil can stay moist but never soggy and waterlogged.
Following these tips will help you keep your succulents healthy and happy. Just remember that these plants are tough and resilient, so don’t be afraid to experiment a little bit with your watering schedule. Soon, you’ll find the perfect balance for your plants.
Shriveling
You may find the once plump leaves of your Ogre Ear plant starting to shrivel. One reason your ogre ear succulent may be shriveling is over exposure to direct sun. If the plant is placed in direct sunlight for extended periods, the leaves will begin to shrivel and turn brown.
Dehydration is another reason for leaf shriveling. If the plant is not getting enough water, the leaves will start to shrivel to conserve moisture.
If you think your ogre ear succulent is suffering from too much sun exposure or dehydration, you can do a few things to help revive the plant.
- Move the plant to an area with indirect sunlight or filtered light. If possible, place the succulent in a spot where it will only receive morning or afternoon sun for a few hours.
- Water the plant deeply and regularly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering sessions. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can also lead to leaf shriveling.
With proper care, your ogre ear succulent should start to recover and the leaves will plump back up.
If you continue to see the plant struggling, or if the leaves begin to turn black or brown, it is best to consult with a succulent expert or bring the plant to a local nursery for further diagnosis.
Best Soil for Ogre Ear Succulent
When it comes to choosing the right soil for your ogre ear succulent, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- Soil needs to be well-draining. Succulents don’t like sitting in wet soil, so make sure that the pot you choose has drainage holes at the bottom.
- The soil should be loose and airy. This will help the roots of your plant to breathe and prevent them from rotting.
- Ensure the pot you choose is not too big for your succulent. If the pot is too big, the roots will have trouble getting the nutrients they need and the plant will struggle to thrive.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best soils for ogre ear succulents.
1. Cactus Potting Mix
As the name suggests, a cactus potting mix is designed specifically for growing cacti and other succulents. It is made up of a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss, which all work together to create a well-draining and airy soil mix.
This mix will help to prevent your ogre ear succulents from becoming waterlogged and will also provide the nutrients it needs to grow healthy and strong.
2. Perlite And Peat Moss Mix
If you can’t find the cactus potting mix at your local garden center, you can easily make your own by mixing together perlite and peat moss. Cactus potting mixes are available online.
This combination will create a light and airy soil mix that will drain well and provide your ogre ear succulent with the nutrients it needs.
Simply mix equal parts perlite and peat moss together and then add water until the mixture is damp but not soggy.
3. Sand And Perlite Mix
Another great option for a well-draining succulent soil mix is a combination of sand and perlite. This mix will help keep your plant’s roots dry and provide it with the drainage it needs to prevent root rot.
Simply mix equal parts sand and perlite together and then add water until the mixture is damp but not soggy.
Fertilizer Tips For Ogre Ear Succulents
Crassula ovata gollum are slow-growing plants and don’t require much fertilizer. If you choose to fertilize, use a fertilizer specifically for succulents, diluted to half the recommended strength once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
The best time to fertilize your succulent is during the growing season, which runs from spring through summer. During this time, your plant will be actively growing and will benefit from extra nutrients.
Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions. Be sure not to overfertilize, as this can damage the roots and leaves of your plant. If you’re unsure how much fertilizer to use, err on the side of using less rather than more.
Your ogre ear will also benefit from occasional misting with a water-soluble fertilizer. This is especially important if the plant is growing in a pot or container that doesn’t have good drainage. Just be sure to rinse the leaves afterward to prevent any fertilizer burn.
You’ll be rewarded with a healthy and happy plant by giving your ogre ear succulents the proper care and nutrients.
Potting And Repotting
These succulents can be easily propagated from stem cuttings, so there’s no need to repot unless the plant has outgrown its current pot.
When repotting, use a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball and use a well-draining potting mix.
Ogre Ear Succulent Pests And Diseases
Ogre ear succulents are relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to mealy bugs, aphids, and spider mites.
If you notice any of these pests on your plant, isolate them immediately and treat them with an appropriate insecticide or miticide.
Root rot is the most common disease problem with these plants, so be sure to water only when the soil is completely dry.
Here are some of the most common problems that you may encounter with your ogre ear succulent:
1. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
If mealybugs infest your plant, you may notice a sticky substance on the leaves or stems. Mealybugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on plant sap. They can cause yellowing leaves and stunted growth.
If you suspect your plant has spider mites, you may see webbing on the leaves or stems. Spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a white powdery fungus that grows on the leaves of plants. It can cause the leaves to yellow and curl. Powdery mildew can be controlled with fungicidal spray or powder.
4. Root Rot
Root rot is caused by too much water around the plant’s roots. The roots will start to decay and the plant will become stunted. Root rot can be controlled by improving drainage and removing dead or decaying roots.
5. Brown Spots On Leaves
Brown spots on the leaves of your ogre ear can be caused by too much sun. The leaves will start to turn brown and may eventually fall off.
Brown spots can also be caused by a fungal disease called rust. Rust can be controlled with fungicidal spray or powder.
6. Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can be caused by several factors, including too much water, too much sun, or nutrient deficiencies.
If you notice that the leaves of your plant are starting to yellow, check the soil to see if it is too wet or dry. You may also need to adjust the amount of sun your plant is getting.
Yellowing leaves can also be a sign of nutrient deficiencies. If you think your plant is not getting enough nutrients, you can fertilize it with a succulent fertilizer.
7. Dropping Leaves
If the leaves of your succulent are dropping off, it could be caused by too much water, too little light, or nutrient deficiencies.
Check the soil to see if it is too wet or dry. Adjust the amount of sun your plant is getting. If you think your plant is not getting enough nutrients, you can fertilize it with a succulent fertilizer.
8. Stretching And Leaning
If your plant starts to stretch and lean, it means it isn’t getting enough light. Move your plant to a brighter location.
Propagation
To propagate an Ogre Ear, you will need to take a leaf cutting from the mother plant. Make sure to choose a healthy leaf free of any pests or diseases.
Cut the leaf off at the base using a sharp knife or pair of scissors. Allow the cut end of the leaf to callus over for a few days before planting it in well-draining succulent soil.
Once the leaf-cutting has been placed in the soil, water it lightly and place it in a bright, warm location.
Allow the cutting to form roots over several weeks before watering it more heavily. Don’t replant into a larger pot until the plant has rooted and begun to grow.
Wrapping Up
Ogre ear succulents are easy to care for and make great houseplants.
They can tolerate some neglect and can go long periods without water. However, they will appreciate being watered when the soil has dried out completely. These plants also need bright light but can tolerate some partial shade.
With proper care, Crassula Ovata Gollum can thrive for many years. These easy-to-care-for succulents make a great addition to any indoor or outdoor space.