Crassula ovata, famously called the Jade Plant, is a popular succulent species known for its vibrant colors and easy care. One particularly beautiful variety of the Jade Plant is called ‘Hummel’s Sunset’, named after the renowned succulent breeder, George Hummel. This variety features stunning variegated leaves with shades of orange, yellow, and pink, adding a pop of color to any collection.
In this article, we will explore the unique features and care requirements of Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset.’
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About Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ is a variety of the Jade Plant, a species of succulent native to South Africa. This particular variety gets its name from the variegated colors of its leaves, which range from shades of orange, yellow, and pink, giving the plant a sunset-like appearance. It was first bred by the famous succulent breeder George Hummel.
Like other Jade Plants, ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ is known for its easy care and low maintenance requirements. It is a slow-growing plant, but with proper care, it can reach up to several feet in height. Its thick, glossy leaves are a sign of good health and can store water for extended periods, making it a drought-tolerant plant.
This succulent is a great choice for beginners, as it is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. It is also a popular choice for bonsai due to its small, compact growth habit.
| Botanical Name | Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ |
| Common Name | Golden Jade Tree |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent |
| Origin | Eastern Cape Province, South Africa |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Height | 1-3 feet |
| Width | 1-2 feet |
| Light | Bright, Indirect Light |
| Bloom season | Spring, Summer |
| Water needs | Low |
| Soil | Well-Drained |
| Tolerant | Drought, Dry soil |
| Toxicity | Toxic |
| Hardiness (USDA) | 9-12 |
Crassula ovata Hummel’s Sunset Care
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ is a unique addition to any succulent collection. Its vibrant colors and easy care make it a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
Light
Crassula ovata Hummel’s Sunset thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too intense, direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch and fade in color.
If the plant is grown indoors, a south-facing window is a good location to provide the plant with enough light.
Soil
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ grows best in well-draining soil. Succulents are sensitive to excess moisture, so it is important to use soil that allows excess water to drain away quickly. A good quality cactus or succulent soil mix is a good choice.
Water
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ is a succulent that is adapted to store water in its leaves and stems. As such, it is important not to overwater the plant.
The best way to water this Crassula is to give it a thorough watering, allowing water to run out of the drainage holes and then allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
When the plant is dormant, you can reduce watering even further during the winter.
Temperature
It is native to South Africa, where it is exposed to hot, dry conditions, so it is adapted to warm temperatures. However, it can also tolerate cooler temperatures, down to about 45-50°F.
When grown indoors, the plant can be kept in a location with temperatures between 55-85°F. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to drafty areas or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause stress and lead to problems.
Humidity
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ is a succulent plant adapted to dry conditions. It does not require high humidity levels to thrive and can tolerate the low humidity levels found in most homes and offices.
Fertilizer
It is best to fertilize the plant from spring to summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 formula, can be applied every two to four weeks. Be sure to dilute the fertilizer, as over-fertilizing can burn the roots and lead to problems.
Pruning
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ doesn’t generally require much pruning. However, there are a few occasions when pruning can be beneficial for the plant. For example, if the plant becomes leggy or too tall, it can be trimmed back to encourage new growth and maintain a compact, full shape.
Potting and Repotting Crassula ovata Hummel’s Sunset
The most important thing to consider for potting is the type of pot and soil you use. Because this plant is a succulent, it needs well-draining soil to prevent the roots from sitting in water for too long. A cactus and succulent mix or a mix of regular potting soil and perlite or sand can work well.
When it comes to repotting, it is generally recommended to do so every 2-3 years or as the plant outgrows its current pot.
Prepare
How to Repot (Step-by-Step)
- Water the plant lightly a day or two before repotting to make it easier to remove from the pot.
- Gently remove the Hummel’s Sunset from its current pot and loosen the roots.
- Plant in the new pot, ensuring it is at the same depth as in the old pot.
- Fill the pot with the potting mix, pressing it lightly around the roots to remove any air pockets.
- Water the plant well after repotting, allowing excess water to drain out of the pot.
- Place the plant in its new location with bright, indirect light and allow it to acclimate to its new pot before resuming regular watering.
Propagating Crassula ovata Hummel’s Sunset by Seeds (Step-by-Step)
- Scatter the seeds evenly over the surface of the potting mix, making sure not to plant them too deeply. Lightly press the seeds into the mix to ensure good contact with the soil.
- Cover the seeds with a very thin layer of the potting mix or fine-grade sand. Mist the surface lightly with water.
- Place the pot or tray in a warm location with bright, indirect light and cover it with a plastic bag.
- Once the seeds have developed into seedlings, transplant them into individual pots using the same potting mix.
Propagating Crassula ovata Hummel’s Sunset by Cuttings (Step-by-Step)
- Use a clean knife to take a stem or leaf cutting from a healthy, mature plant.
- Allow the Hummel’s Sunset cutting to callus over for a couple of days.
- Fill a pot with well-draining soil. Water the mix lightly.
- Dip the base of the cutting in hormone powder (optional).
- Plant the cutting in the potting mix, ensuring the leaves are above the soil and not buried.
- Place the pot or tray in a location with bright, indirect light and provide ample humidity.
- Once the cutting has developed a good root system and new growth appears, carefully transplant it into a larger pot using the same potting mix.
Blooms
Crassula ovata Hummel’s Sunset is not known for its flowers, as it is primarily grown for its beautiful foliage. The plant may produce small, white, or pink flowers during the spring or summer, but these are not particularly showy and may not occur on every plant.
Toxicity
Crassula ovata ‘Hummel’s Sunset’ is toxic. It is considered toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Keep away from pets and children.
NOTE: This page is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice. The toxicity of an ingested substance varies depending on the amount ingested, the animal’s weight, and its sensitivity to specific allergens. Contact your veterinarian or local animal poison control center immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a toxic substance.
Common Pests
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing distortion and yellowing of the leaves. They are often found on the undersides of leaves. To treat aphids, you can apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil solution according to the product instructions.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the plant’s sap and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. They are often found on the stems and leaves of the plant. To treat mealybugs, you can use the same methods as for aphids or rubbing alcohol applied with a cotton swab to the affected areas.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that spin webs on the plant and feed on the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They are often found on the undersides of the leaves. To treat spider mites, you spray water to knock them off the plant or a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, according to the product instructions.
AVOID
- Overwatering
- Placing under harsh sunlight
- Using poorly drained potting mediums
- Fertilizing during dormancy
