Crassula ovata

Another Crassula, this one sits right next to Crassula “Gollum” in the garden. Looking at them side by side it’s clear they are very closely related, I can imagine a single mutation caused the leaves of the Jade Plant to curl back upon themselves, and there we have the “gollum”. Evolution in action.

Succulent leaves of the Jade Plant

Jade Plant, doing well in shallow sandy soil

Crassula ovata “Gollum”

Crassula Gollum is a South African native that is popular in nurseries. It is a small shrub growing to only 1m tall with thick spongy branches. The leaves are tube-shaped succulent terminating with a red-tipped suction cup like structure at the tips.

The name “Gollum” is in reference to J.R.R. Tolkien’s character from The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. I’ve also seen them referred to as “Shrek’s ears”; it’s a pretty good description.

Crassula multicava

Another breakout that has colonized large parts of the front garden. The Pitted Crassula,  also know as Cape Province Pygmy Weed is originally from South Africa and is considered by some to be a weed over here. It’s a small ground hugging plant with light green thick succulent leaves. The leaves are covered in small pitts or divots, flowers are white to light pink and look like a 4 pronged star.