Crassula Ovata, Shrek's Ear. C09

Crassula ovata, also known as "Shrek's ears" in English, is a succulent plant native to South Africa.

It is a very compact shrubby plant with thick stems. In the wild it can grow up to 90 cm high and about 60 cm wide.

Its peculiar tubular leaves have a slight reddish tinge at the ends, which gives it a really curious appearance. These curious leaves are what give it the nickname of "Shrek's ears" because of its resemblance to the animated character.

During the winter season, the crassula ovata develops flowers similar to those of its relatives.

These flowers are composed of five white petals with pinkish touches at the ends.

Like the rest of the family, this plant is easy to care for.

It is important to use a substrate suitable for succulents and a pot with good drainage.

Like the rest of the crassula family, this plant withstands dry and hot climates well, even short frosts in the coldest seasons.

The most important thing is that it has a dry environment during the winter, as humidity can cause it to rot quickly.

It is advisable to water it lightly without puddling. The substrate should always be completely dry before watering again.

Excessive moisture rots the plant, especially in cold seasons.

The light should be direct sunlight for at least 4/6 hours a day.

The crassula ovata can be easily propagated by taking stem or leaf cuttings.

If you are going to propagate your plant at home, it is advisable to take the cutting from the stem or leaf using a sharp knife to cut it flush.

Afterwards, you should let the cutting dry for a few days so that a callus forms at the cutting site. This prevents it from absorbing too much water and rotting.

Prepare the recommended substrate and place the cutting so that it touches the substrate without burying it. To do this, you can rest the cutting on the side of the pot or help yourself with a pebble.

Once planted, water lightly without waterlogging and always make sure that the substrate is dry before watering the plant again.

Crassula ovata is a fast-growing plant, so in a few weeks we will start to see how our specimen reproduces.

These plants are especially recommended for beginners who are just starting out in the world of bonsai because they are so easy to care for.