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Description
Dudleya candelabrum is a perennial succulent plant that is native to the coastal areas of California, USA. Also known as candleholder liveforever, this plant is a member of the Crassulaceae family. It is highly valued for its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements. The plant is named after William Russel Dudley, an American botanist who was influential in the study of desert plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Crassulaceae |
| Genus | Dudleya |
Appearance
Dudleya candelabrum has a distinctive growth habit, which is where it gets its common name. The plant forms a rosette of thick, fleshy leaves that resemble candlesticks, with the tallest leaves in the center. The leaves are blue-green in color and have a powdery coating that gives them a frosted appearance. The plant can reach up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. In the spring, it produces a tall stalk with clusters of yellow flowers that attract pollinators.
Care Guide
Dudleya candelabrum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
Water: Dudleya candelabrum is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Dudleya candelabrum does not require fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or rocky. Avoid planting it in heavy or clay soils.
Sunlight: Dudleya candelabrum thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy.
Hardiness Zones: Dudleya candelabrum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dudleya candelabrum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the leaves and stem of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Rot: Overwatering or planting in heavy soil can cause the roots of the plant to rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering too frequently.
Habitat
Dudleya candelabrum is native to the coastal areas of California, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soils. It is often found in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and other coastal habitats. The plant is adapted to drought and can survive long periods without water.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dudleya candelabrum toxic to pets?
A: Dudleya candelabrum is not known to be toxic to pets. However, it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants to avoid accidental ingestion.
Q: How often should I water Dudleya candelabrum?
A: Water Dudleya candelabrum deeply once a month during the growing season (spring and summer), and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: Can I grow Dudleya candelabrum indoors?
A: Dudleya candelabrum prefers full sun and is not well-suited to indoor growing. It is best grown outdoors in a sunny, well-draining location.
Q: Can I propagate Dudleya candelabrum from cuttings?
A: Yes, Dudleya candelabrum can be propagated from stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
Here are some other Dudleya species that you may be interested in:
- Dudleya brittonii
- Dudleya caespitosa
- Dudleya farinosa
- Dudleya lanceolata
References
- “Dudleya candelabrum.” Calscape, California Native Plant Society, https://calscape.org/Dudleya-candelabrum-(Candleholder-Liveforever).
- “Dudleya candelabrum.” San Marcos Growers, https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1664.
- “Dudleya candelabrum.” World of Succulents, https://worldofsucculents.com/dudleya-candelabrum-candle-holder-liveforever/.
