How to Care for Your ET’s Finger Jade? - Plant Care Guide

To care for your ET's Finger Jade, also known as Crassula ovata 'Gollum', provide it with plenty of bright, indirect sunlight and use a well-draining succulent potting mix. Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry, and protect it from cold temperatures.

What is ET's Finger Jade and why is it a unique houseplant?

ET's Finger Jade, formally known as Crassula ovata 'Gollum' (and sometimes 'Hobbit' or 'Trumpet Jade'), is a fascinating succulent plant known for its distinctive, tubular, finger-like leaves. Unlike the flat, oval leaves of traditional jade plants, 'Gollum' jade features leaves that are fused and rolled, creating an otherworldly appearance reminiscent of its namesake character or alien fingers. This unique foliage makes it a highly sought-after and easy-to-care-for houseplant for both beginners and experienced succulent enthusiasts.

What are the distinctive features of ET's Finger Jade?

Crassula ovata 'Gollum' stands out from other jade plants with several unique characteristics:

• Tubular, Finger-like Leaves: This is its most defining feature. The leaves are not flat but cylindrical, often with a slight reddish tint on the tips when exposed to bright light. They resemble small green trumpets or suction cups.
• Tree-like Growth Habit: Like other jade plants, 'Gollum' grows into a small, shrub-like tree over time, developing a thick, woody stem and branching structure. This makes it an excellent candidate for bonsai training.
• Slow Growth Rate: It's a relatively slow-growing succulent, meaning it won't outgrow its space quickly and is easier to manage in containers.
• Minimalist Aesthetic: Its unusual form lends itself well to modern, minimalist decor, as well as more whimsical, fairy garden-like arrangements.
• Resilience: It shares the general hardiness and drought-tolerance of other jade plants, making it a very forgiving houseplant.
• Small Flowers (Rarely Indoors): Mature plants can produce small, star-shaped, pale pink or white flowers in clusters, typically in late fall or winter, though this is less common for indoor plants.

What makes ET's Finger Jade an easy-care houseplant?

Crassula ovata 'Gollum' has earned its reputation as an easy-care houseplant due to its inherent resilience and adaptability.

• Drought Tolerance: As a succulent, it stores water in its fleshy leaves, allowing it to withstand periods of infrequent watering. This is perfect for busy individuals or those who occasionally forget to water.
• Adaptable to Light: While it thrives in bright light, it can also tolerate slightly lower light conditions (though its vibrant colors might dim).
• Low Nutritional Needs: It doesn't require frequent fertilizing, as it's adapted to nutrient-poor soils in its natural habitat.
• Pest Resistance: Generally, it's not heavily plagued by common houseplant pests, especially when kept in optimal conditions.
• Longevity: With proper care, ET's Finger Jade can live for many decades, growing into a beautiful, mature specimen that becomes a long-term part of your home.
• Easy Propagation: It's incredibly easy to propagate from stem or leaf cuttings, allowing you to easily expand your collection or share with friends.

Its unique appearance combined with its low-maintenance nature makes the ET's Finger Jade a truly delightful and rewarding addition to any indoor plant collection.

What are the ideal light and temperature conditions for ET's Finger Jade?

Providing the right light and temperature is paramount for your ET's Finger Jade to thrive, maintaining its compact form and unique coloring. As a succulent, it naturally prefers conditions similar to its arid origins.

How much sunlight does ET's Finger Jade need?

Light is perhaps the most important factor for the health and appearance of your ET's Finger Jade.

• Bright, Indirect Sunlight is Ideal: ET's Finger Jade thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. This means a location near a south-facing window (in the Northern Hemisphere) or an east- or west-facing window where it receives several hours of bright light, but is protected from intense, scorching midday sun.
• Direct Sun Tolerance: It can tolerate some direct morning sun (2-4 hours) or milder afternoon sun. In fact, exposure to bright direct light will often bring out beautiful reddish or purplish tints on the tips of its tubular leaves, enhancing its "alien finger" appearance.
• Avoid Intense Afternoon Sun: In hot climates or during peak summer, prolonged exposure to harsh afternoon sun can cause leaves to burn or scorch, leading to discolored spots or a stressed appearance.
• Insufficient Light: If your plant doesn't get enough light, it will become leggy (stretched out with widely spaced leaves), its growth will be weak, and its vibrant leaf colors may fade to a duller green.
• Rotate Regularly: If your plant is in a window, rotate it every few weeks to ensure all sides receive even light exposure, promoting balanced growth.
• Grow Lights: If natural light is insufficient, especially during winter months or in darker rooms, a LED grow light can provide the necessary intensity. Position it a few inches above the plant for optimal results.

What temperature range is best for ET's Finger Jade?

ET's Finger Jade prefers moderate temperatures and is not tolerant of frost.

• Ideal Temperatures: Aim for typical room temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the day. Nighttime temperatures can drop slightly, down to around 50-55°F (10-13°C), which can actually promote healthier growth.
• Cold Tolerance: While it can tolerate brief dips to around 40°F (4°C), it is not frost-hardy. Freezing temperatures will cause significant damage and often kill the plant. If growing outdoors in containers, bring it indoors before temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
• Heat Tolerance: It can handle relatively warm temperatures, especially if air circulation is good and it's protected from intense direct sun. However, extreme prolonged heat combined with insufficient watering can cause stress.
• Avoid Drafts and Sudden Changes: Protect your plant from cold drafts (e.g., near open windows in winter, or air conditioning vents) and sudden temperature fluctuations, as these can stress the plant.

By providing ample bright, indirect light and maintaining consistent, moderate temperatures, you're creating the perfect environment for your ET's Finger Jade to flourish and showcase its unique beauty.

How do I water and fertilize my ET's Finger Jade?

Proper watering and mindful fertilization are crucial for the health of your ET's Finger Jade. As a succulent, it has specific needs that, when met, will prevent common issues like root rot and ensure vibrant growth.

How often should I water my ET's Finger Jade?

Watering is the most common area where succulent owners make mistakes, usually by overwatering.

• The "Soak and Dry" Method: This is the golden rule for ET's Finger Jade. Water thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. Then, allow the soil to completely dry out before watering again.
• Check Soil Moisture: Don't just water on a schedule. Feel the soil. Stick your finger 1-2 inches deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it's likely time to water. For larger pots, a soil moisture meter can give more accurate readings throughout the entire root ball.
• Factors Affecting Frequency: Watering frequency will vary depending on several factors:
  • Season: More frequent watering in spring/summer (active growing season), much less in fall/winter (dormant period).
  • Light: Plants in brighter light dry out faster.
  • Temperature: Warmer temperatures mean faster drying.
  • Pot Size & Material: Smaller pots and terracotta pots dry faster than large plastic pots.
• Signs of Underwatering: Leaves may start to shrivel or wrinkle. The plant may appear less plump. Don't worry, they usually bounce back quickly after a good soak.
• Signs of Overwatering: Leaves become soft, mushy, yellow, or fall off easily. The stem might turn black and soft, indicating root rot. This is often fatal if not caught early.
• Drainage is Key: Always use a pot with a drainage hole to prevent water from pooling at the bottom, which is a direct path to root rot.

What kind of soil is best for ET's Finger Jade?

Using the right soil is as important as proper watering.

• Well-Draining Succulent/Cactus Mix: ET's Finger Jade needs a potting mix that drains very quickly and doesn't hold excess moisture. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is ideal.
• DIY Mix: You can easily make your own by combining equal parts of:
  • Regular potting soil
  • Perlite or coarse sand
  • Pumice or coco coir (optional, for added drainage and aeration)
• Avoid Heavy Potting Soil: Standard houseplant potting soil is usually too dense and retains too much moisture, leading to root rot for succulents.

How often should I fertilize my ET's Finger Jade?

ET's Finger Jade has relatively low nutrient needs.

• Infrequent Feeding: Fertilize sparingly, typically only during its active growing season (spring and summer).
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, liquid succulent or cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength (e.g., 5-10-10 or 2-7-7).
• Application Frequency: Fertilize once every 2-4 weeks during the growing season, or even less frequently (e.g., once a month). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
• No Fertilizer on Dry Soil: Always water your plant thoroughly before fertilizing to prevent root burn.
• Signs of Deficiency (Rare): Very rarely, a plant might show signs of nutrient deficiency (stunted growth, pale leaves), but this is usually due to inadequate light or watering rather than lack of fertilizer. Most jade plants thrive with minimal feeding.

By mastering the "soak and dry" watering method, using a fast-draining soil, and fertilizing sparingly, you'll ensure your ET's Finger Jade remains healthy, robust, and free from the most common succulent problems.

How do I prune and repot my ET's Finger Jade?

Pruning and repotting are essential practices that help maintain the health, shape, and vigor of your ET's Finger Jade. These techniques allow you to control its size, encourage denser growth, and provide fresh soil for its long life.

When should I prune my ET's Finger Jade and why?

Pruning your ET's Finger Jade is beneficial for several reasons and should be done at the right time.

• Why Prune:
  • Shape and Size Control: Jades can become quite large and unruly. Pruning helps maintain a desired shape and keeps the plant compact, especially if you're training it as a bonsai.
  • Encourage Bushier Growth: When you prune a stem, the plant will typically branch out into two new stems from the cut point, leading to a denser, fuller appearance.
  • Remove Leggy Growth: If your plant has become stretched due to insufficient light, pruning can help restore a more compact form.
  • Remove Damaged or Dead Branches: This improves the plant's overall health and appearance.
  • Propagation Material: Pruned cuttings are excellent for propagation.
• When to Prune: The best time to prune your ET's Finger Jade is during its active growing season, which is typically spring or early summer. This allows the plant to quickly heal its cuts and put out new growth. Avoid heavy pruning in fall or winter when the plant is less active.

Step-by-step guide to pruning ET's Finger Jade

Pruning is straightforward, but always use clean tools.

1. Sanitize Your Tools: Use sharp, clean pruning shears or a clean knife. Sanitize them with rubbing alcohol before you begin to prevent the spread of diseases.
2. Identify Your Goals:
   • Remove Dead/Damaged: Cut these back to healthy wood or the main stem.
   • Reduce Leggy Growth: Cut back stretched stems to a point where leaves are closer together, or to a desired branching point.
   • Shape the Plant: Look at the overall form. Cut stems that are growing inward, crossing, or making the plant look unbalanced. Aim for an open, airy structure.
   • Encourage Branching: Make cuts just above a leaf node (where leaves emerge from the stem). New growth will typically sprout from this point.
3. Make Clean Cuts: Cut cleanly through the stem.
4. Allow Cuts to Callus: After pruning, allow the cut surfaces to dry and form a callus for a few days before watering the plant heavily. This prevents rot.
5. Save Cuttings: Any healthy cuttings can be used for propagation!

When should I repot my ET's Finger Jade and how?

Repotting provides fresh soil and allows for root expansion.

• When to Repot: ET's Finger Jade is a slow grower and prefers to be slightly root-bound, so it doesn't need frequent repotting.
  • Repot typically every 2-3 years, or when you notice signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes, the plant becoming top-heavy, or growth significantly slowing down despite good care.
  • The best time to repot is in spring or early summer, during its active growing season.
• Choosing a New Pot:
  • Select a pot that is only one size larger than the current one (e.g., if currently in a 6-inch pot, move to an 8-inch pot). Too large a pot holds too much moisture, increasing rot risk.
  • Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
  • Terracotta pots are excellent for succulents as they promote airflow and help dry out the soil.
• Step-by-step Repotting:
  1. Prepare the New Pot: Place a small layer of fresh, well-draining succulent potting mix at the bottom of the new pot.
  2. Remove Old Plant: Gently tip the old pot on its side and carefully ease the plant out. Avoid pulling by the stem.
  3. Inspect Roots: Shake off as much old soil as possible. Inspect the roots for any signs of rot (mushy, black roots) and trim them away with clean shears. You can also lightly trim any overly long roots to encourage new growth.
  4. Position the Plant: Place the plant in the new pot, ensuring the base of the stem is at the same level as it was in the old pot. Add or remove soil from below until the height is right.
  5. Fill with Soil: Fill around the root ball with fresh potting mix, gently tamping it down to remove large air pockets. Leave about an inch of space from the rim.
  6. Do Not Water Immediately: Allow the plant to settle into its new pot for about a week, and let any disturbed roots heal. Do not water for 5-7 days after repotting. This helps prevent rot.
  7. Resume Care: After a week, resume your regular watering schedule, starting with a thorough soak.

By following these pruning and repotting guidelines, you'll keep your ET's Finger Jade healthy, encourage desirable growth, and ensure it has the fresh environment it needs to thrive for many years.

How can I propagate ET's Finger Jade?

Propagating your ET's Finger Jade is incredibly easy and a rewarding way to create new plants from existing ones. This allows you to expand your collection, fill empty pots, or share your unique succulents with friends.

What methods are best for propagating ET's Finger Jade?

ET's Finger Jade can be successfully propagated using two simple methods: stem cuttings and leaf cuttings. Both are effective, with stem cuttings typically yielding faster results.

• Stem Cuttings: This involves cutting a section of stem with a few leaves attached. It's usually the quickest way to get a new, larger plant.
• Leaf Cuttings: This involves rooting individual leaves. It takes longer but can produce many new plants from just a few leaves.

Step-by-step guide to propagating ET's Finger Jade from stem cuttings

Stem cuttings are usually the preferred method due to their higher success rate and faster growth.

1. Take a Cutting: Using clean, sharp pruning shears or a knife, take a stem cutting that is at least 3-6 inches long. Ensure the cutting has several healthy leaves.
2. Remove Lower Leaves: Gently remove the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches of the cutting. This exposes the nodes from which roots will emerge.
3. Allow to Callus: This is a crucial step. Place the cutting in a dry, well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight for 3-7 days. The cut end will form a dry, hardened callus. This prevents rot when you plant it.
4. Plant the Cutting:
   • Fill a small pot with well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix.
   • Insert the callused end of the cutting about 1-2 inches deep into the soil. You can use a chopstick or pencil to make a small hole first.
   • Gently firm the soil around the base of the cutting to hold it upright.
5. Initial Watering (or not): Some propagators prefer to wait a few days after planting before the first light watering. Others give a very light mist immediately. The key is not to overwater at this stage.
6. Provide Light & Wait for Roots: Place the potted cutting in a bright, indirect light location. Do not water again until the soil is completely dry.
   • Roots typically form within 2-4 weeks. You can gently tug on the cutting after a few weeks; if there's resistance, it has rooted.
   • Once rooted, you can begin to water sparingly, following the "soak and dry" method.
7. New Growth: After rooting, new leaves will start to emerge from the top or sides of the stem.

Step-by-step guide to propagating ET's Finger Jade from leaf cuttings

Leaf cuttings are a slower but equally fascinating way to propagate.

1. Select Healthy Leaves: Gently twist or cut a healthy, plump leaf from the main stem. Ensure you get the entire leaf base intact; if the base breaks, it won't root.
2. Allow to Callus: Just like stem cuttings, place the leaves in a dry, well-ventilated spot away from direct sunlight for 3-7 days until the cut end forms a callus.
3. Place on Soil:
   • Fill a shallow tray or pot with well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix.
   • Lay the callused leaves directly on top of the soil. You can slightly embed the callused end into the soil, but ensure the majority of the leaf is exposed.
4. Mist Lightly (Optional): Some propagators mist the soil very lightly every few days, but often simply leaving them on dry soil works best until roots appear. The leaves have enough stored water to survive.
5. Wait for Roots and Pups: Place the tray in a bright, indirect light location.
   • Over several weeks to a few months, you will see tiny pink roots emerge from the callused end.
   • Soon after, a tiny "pup" (a miniature new plant) will begin to form at the base of the leaf.
6. Water (Very Sparingly): Once roots and a small pup have formed, you can start very lightly misting the soil around the roots every few days, or watering with a pipette near the roots once the soil is dry. The mother leaf will eventually shrivel and fall off as the pup grows.
7. Pot Up Pups: Once the pup is a decent size and the mother leaf has withered, you can gently separate and pot up the new plant into its own small container, continuing with normal ET's Finger Jade care.

Propagating your ET's Finger Jade is not only rewarding but also a fantastic way to ensure you always have more of these charming, unique succulents to enjoy or share.

What are common problems and solutions for ET's Finger Jade?

Even easy-care plants like ET's Finger Jade can face problems. Knowing how to spot common issues and apply the right solutions will help keep your unique succulent healthy and thriving for years.

Why are my ET's Finger Jade leaves shriveling or turning yellow?

Leaf issues are common indicators of underlying problems, most often related to watering or light.

• Shriveling/Wrinkling Leaves: This is almost always a sign of underwatering. The plant is drawing on its stored water, causing its leaves to appear less plump.
  • Solution: Give the plant a thorough, deep watering using the "soak and dry" method. It should plump back up within a day or two. Increase watering frequency slightly during the active growing season.
• Yellowing, Soft, or Mushy Leaves: This is a classic symptom of overwatering and potential root rot. The cells are waterlogged and dying.
  • Solution: Immediately stop watering. Check the soil: if it's soggy, gently unpot the plant. Inspect the roots; if they are black and mushy, trim them away with sterile shears. Allow the plant to dry out for several days (or a week if root rot is severe) before repotting into fresh, dry, well-draining succulent mix.
• Leaves Falling Off Easily: If healthy-looking leaves drop with just a slight touch, it's often a sign of overwatering or, less commonly, sudden temperature changes.
  • Solution: Adjust watering schedule. Ensure the plant is not in a cold draft or near a heat source that causes extreme fluctuations.
• Leaves Turning Yellow and Dropping (Older Leaves): If it's only a few older, lower leaves, this can be a natural process as the plant sheds old foliage to put energy into new growth.
  • Solution: No action needed, but ensure other care is optimal.

Why is my ET's Finger Jade getting leggy or losing its red tips?

These issues are typically related to light exposure.

• Leggy Growth (Stretching Out): This means the stems are elongating with wide spaces between leaves, and the plant looks "stretched." It's a clear sign of insufficient light. The plant is literally reaching for more light.
  • Solution: Move the plant to a brighter location. If natural light isn't enough, consider supplementing with a grow light. You can prune back the leggy sections to encourage bushier, more compact growth, and then propagate the cuttings.
• Losing Red Tips/Becoming Plain Green: The beautiful reddish or purplish tints on the tips of the leaves are a result of sun stress (a beneficial kind of stress). If these colors fade, it means the plant isn't getting enough bright, direct sunlight.
  • Solution: Gradually increase its exposure to brighter light. A few hours of morning sun or strong indirect light will help bring the colors back.

What pests commonly affect ET's Finger Jade and how do I treat them?

ET's Finger Jade is generally pest-resistant, but sometimes common succulent pests can find their way to your plant.

• Mealybugs: These are the most common pest for jade plants. They appear as small, white, cottony masses in leaf axils (where leaves meet stems) or under leaves. They suck plant sap, weakening the plant.
  • Solution:
    • Manual Removal: For light infestations, dab them directly with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
    • Insecticidal Soap: For heavier infestations, spray the plant thoroughly with an insecticidal soap solution, ensuring good coverage of all crevices. Repeat every 7-10 days until clear.
    • Neem Oil: Apply neem oil solution according to package directions.
• Spider Mites (Less Common): Tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves and fine webbing. More likely in hot, dry conditions.
  • Solution: Increase humidity (mist the plant, but avoid constantly wet leaves). Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Scale (Less Common): Small, round, often brown or black bumps on stems or leaves. They are immobile and suck sap.
  • Solution: Scrape them off manually, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.

How do I prevent these problems from happening?

Prevention is always the best cure for common plant problems.

• Proper Watering: Adhere strictly to the "soak and dry" method.
• Adequate Light: Provide plenty of bright, indirect light, with some direct sun exposure to maintain color and compact growth.
• Well-Draining Soil: Always use a succulent-specific potting mix and a pot with drainage holes.
• Good Air Circulation: Ensure your plant isn't in a stagnant, humid environment.
• Regular Inspection: Routinely check your plant's leaves, stems, and soil for any early signs of pests, discoloration, or changes in texture.
• Quarantine New Plants: Isolate new plants for a few weeks before introducing them to your existing collection to prevent pest spread.

By staying vigilant and consistently providing optimal conditions, you can enjoy your unique ET's Finger Jade, appreciating its alien beauty and robust nature for many years to come.