Ogre Ears Succulent: A Guide to Caring for This Unusual Plant

Oleh Alfredo Ruecker PhD June 16, 2023 Post a Comment

Are you looking for an unusual and eye-catching plant to add to your collection? Look no further than the Ogre Ears succulent. With its unique appearance and low-maintenance requirements, this plant is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Also known as the Shrek Ears succulent, the Ogre Ears gets its name from its large, fleshy leaves that resemble the ears of a mythical ogre. Native to South Africa, this plant thrives in warm, dry climates and requires minimal watering and attention.

In this article, we'll delve deeper into the world of Ogre Ears succulents, exploring their care requirements, propagation methods, and more.

Section 1: What is an Ogre Ears Succulent?

The Ogre Ears succulent is a member of the Crassulaceae family, which includes other popular succulent plants like Jade and Aloe Vera. The plant features thick, green leaves with a velvety texture that grow in a rosette pattern.

One of the most distinctive features of the Ogre Ears succulent is its size. This plant can grow up to 12 inches in diameter, making it a real statement piece in any garden or home.

Section 2: How to Care for Your Ogre Ears Succulent

The good news is that caring for an Ogre Ears succulent is relatively straightforward. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy and happy:

Soil

Ogre Ears succulents prefer a well-draining soil mix that's rich in nutrients. You can use a commercial cactus mix or create your own by combining potting soil with sand and perlite.

Watering

Like all succulents, Ogre Ears plants don't require much water. Water your plant only when the soil is completely dry, and be sure to avoid getting water on the leaves or stem.

Light

Ogre Ears succulents thrive in bright, indirect light. Place your plant near a sunny window or under a grow light for best results.

Temperature

These plants prefer warm temperatures between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid exposing them to cold drafts or temperatures below 50 degrees.

Fertilizer

You can fertilize your Ogre Ears succulent once every few months using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Section 3: Propagating Your Ogre Ears Succulent

If you want to expand your collection of Ogre Ears succulents, you'll be happy to know that these plants are relatively easy to propagate. Here are two methods you can try:

Leaf Cuttings

To propagate an Ogre Ears succulent using leaf cuttings, simply remove a healthy leaf from the parent plant and let it callous over for a day or two. Then, plant the leaf in well-draining soil and mist with water occasionally until new growth appears.

Offsets

Ogre Ears succulents also produce offsets, which are small plants that grow at the base of the parent plant. To propagate using offsets, simply separate the baby plant from the parent and plant it in its own pot.

Section 4: Common Issues and How to Solve Them

While Ogre Ears succulents are relatively low-maintenance, they can still experience some common issues that can impact their health and appearance. Here are a few problems you may encounter and how to solve them:

Root Rot

One of the most common issues with Ogre Ears succulents is root rot. This occurs when the plant is overwatered or planted in soil that doesn't drain well. To prevent root rot, be sure to water your plant sparingly and use a well-draining soil mix.

Pests

Ogre Ears succulents can also attract pests like mealybugs and spider mites. To get rid of these pesky critters, you can use an organic insecticide or simply wipe the leaves with a damp cloth.

Sunburn

If your Ogre Ears succulent is exposed to too much direct sunlight, it can develop sunburned patches on its leaves. To prevent this, be sure to place your plant in a location with bright, indirect light.

In conclusion, Ogre Ears succulents are a unique and eye-catching addition to any collection. With their low-maintenance requirements and distinctive appearance, these plants are perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. Follow our care tips and propagation methods to ensure your Ogre Ears succulent thrives for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often should I water my Ogre Ears succulent?

A: Water your Ogre Ears succulent only when the soil is completely dry, which is typically every two weeks or so.

Q2: Can I grow an Ogre Ears succulent indoors?

A: Yes! These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, making them a great choice for indoor growers.

Q3: Will my Ogre Ears succulent flower?

A: Yes, Ogre Ears succulents can produce small yellow or pink flowers in the spring and summer.

Q4: How do I know if my Ogre Ears succulent is getting enough light?

A: If your plant's leaves to stretch and become elongated, it may not be getting enough light. Move your plant to a brighter location to remedy this issue.

Q5: Can I propagate my Ogre Ears succulent in water?

A: While it's possible to propagate some plants in water, we don't recommend using this method for Ogre Ears succulents. These plants prefer well-draining soil and can be more susceptible to rot if they're kept in water for too long.

Q6: What should I do if my Ogre Ears succulent gets sunburned?

A: If your plant develops sunburned patches on its leaves, move it to a location with less direct sunlight and trim off the damaged leaves.

Q7: Can I keep my Ogre Ears succulent outside year-round?

A: If you live in a warm, dry climate, you can keep your Ogre Ears succulent outside year-round. However, if you live in a colder climate, you may need to bring your plant indoors during the winter months.

Q8: How big can an Ogre Ears succulent grow?

A: Ogre Ears succulents can grow up to 12 inches in diameter.

Q9: Is it normal for my Ogre Ears succulent to lose some leaves?

A: Yes, it's normal for Ogre Ears succulents to shed some leaves as they grow and mature.

Q10: Can I fertilize my Ogre Ears succulent with coffee grounds?

A: While coffee grounds can be used as a fertilizer for some plants, we don't recommend using them on Ogre Ears succulents. These plants prefer a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer instead.