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Description
Dudleya Edulis, also known as the “edible liveforever,” is a succulent plant that is native to California and Mexico. It is a small plant that grows up to 8 inches tall and 12 inches wide. The leaves of Dudleya Edulis are rosette-shaped, grey-green in color, and have a powdery coating. During the summer, the plant produces a tall stem with yellow flowers that attract hummingbirds and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Dudleya |
| Species: | Dudleya Edulis |
Appearance
Dudleya Edulis is a small succulent plant with rosette-shaped leaves that are grey-green in color and have a powdery coating. The leaves are spoon-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. During the summer, the plant produces a tall stem that can grow up to 2 feet tall with yellow flowers that are 1 inch in diameter. The flowers attract hummingbirds and bees. The plant can also produce offsets, which can be removed and replanted to propagate the plant.
Care Guide
- Water: Dudleya Edulis is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a month during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: Dudleya Edulis does not require fertilization. If you choose to fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer once a year during the growing season.
- Soil: Dudleya Edulis prefers well-draining soil. Use a cactus or succulent soil mix, or a mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss.
- Sunlight: Dudleya Edulis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to stretch and lose its compact shape.
- Hardiness Zones: Dudleya Edulis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dudleya Edulis is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant excessively. The plant can also be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Dudleya Edulis is native to California and Mexico. It grows in rocky areas and can be found in coastal areas, chaparral, and deserts. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate high temperatures and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dudleya Edulis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Dudleya Edulis can be grown indoors. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Make sure to water the plant deeply once a month during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dudleya Edulis?
A: Dudleya Edulis does not require fertilization. If you choose to fertilize, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer once a year during the growing season.
Q: Can I propagate Dudleya Edulis?
A: Yes, Dudleya Edulis can be propagated by removing offsets and replanting them in well-draining soil. Allow the offsets to dry for a few days before replanting.
Q: How often should I water Dudleya Edulis?
A: Dudleya Edulis is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a month during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.
Related Plants
- Dudleya Pulverulenta
- Dudleya Farinosa
- Dudleya Caespitosa
- Dudleya Lanceolata
References
- “Dudleya edulis.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=44.
- “Dudleya edulis.” Cactus and Succulents. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.cactus-succulents.com/botanicals/dudleya-edulis/.
- “Dudleya edulis.” Succulent Guide. Accessed August 12, 2021. https://www.succulentguide.com/dudleya-edulis/.
